Federal and State Response to Hurricane Helene

As Hurricane Helene makes landfall in Florida, the American Red Cross has mobilized around 360 disaster responders and opened several shelters, accommodating over 2,500 individuals in need of assistance. In Georgia, Governor Brian Kemp has activated National Guard units and coordinated resources to deal with expected heavy rain and flooding as the storm progresses. North Carolina is preparing for significant rainfall, with teams dispatched for water rescues and local organizations readying to provide aid. Meanwhile, the federal government missed an opportunity to secure additional disaster relief funding, leaving FEMA facing a $2 billion deficit. Oklahoma is sending swift water rescue teams to assist affected areas in Florida and North Carolina, demonstrating state-to-state support through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. The storm's wide impact raises concerns about food insecurity and infrastructure challenges across the southeastern U.S.