Hurricane Helene Causes Record $53 Billion Damage

Hurricane Helene has inflicted unprecedented destruction in western North Carolina, with preliminary estimates suggesting damages and recovery needs could reach at least $53 billion, marking a record for the state. Governor Roy Cooper characterized Helene as the deadliest storm in North Carolina's history, resulting in 96 confirmed deaths and significant infrastructure damage, including 1,400 landslides and impacts on over 126,000 homes. Cooper has requested $3.9 billion in aid from the General Assembly as an initial step towards recovery, with expectations of substantial federal assistance to follow. The state has already allocated $273 million for immediate recovery efforts, but a significant funding gap remains. The North Carolina Department of Transportation is actively seeking contractors for debris removal and infrastructure rebuilding, indicating the scale of recovery efforts needed. Recovery is ongoing, with FEMA providing $124 million in aid so far, and the dedication of National Guard troops to assist in relief operations.