Hurricane Helene Death Toll Rises to 230

Hurricane Helene has resulted in a death toll exceeding 230 across six states, with North Carolina suffering the most casualties, particularly in Buncombe County, where 72 bodies have been recovered. The storm is noted as the deadliest named storm to hit the mainland U.S. since Hurricane Katrina, with recovery efforts ongoing as many remain unaccounted for. President Biden has mobilized 1,000 active-duty military personnel and additional federal resources to assist in the recovery and aid distribution. Power restoration efforts are underway, although nearly 700,000 homes and businesses are still without electricity. The search for survivors and victims continues, with many areas previously unreachable due to flooding now beginning to be accessed. As recovery operations progress, the death toll is expected to rise as more areas are searched and assessed for damage.