North Carolina County Faces Crisis with 1,000 Missing Post-Hurricane Helene

Written by Kathrine Frich

Sep.30 - 2024 2:00 PM CET

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Critical infrastructure, including electricity and communication networks, has been severely impacted.

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Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida last Thursday, unleashing winds reaching up to 140 mph (225 km/h).

Authorities Continue the Search

The aftermath is a stark reminder of the destructive power of nature, leaving behind flooded roads, destroyed homes, and collapsed bridges.

Critical infrastructure, including electricity and communication networks, has been severely impacted, along with water supply systems, exacerbating the crisis for affected communities, according to L'Independent.

The human toll of the hurricane is even more tragic, with the death toll currently standing at at least 93. Authorities continue their search for victims and possible survivors, focusing particularly on North Carolina, which has emerged as the hardest-hit state.

Here, 37 deaths have been reported, with 30 occurring in Buncombe County alone. This county has seen more than 1,000 residents reported missing, prompting local officials to take action.

Dedicated Website Created

In response to this crisis, emergency meetings have been held, during which officials announced the creation of a dedicated website for those seeking assistance in locating missing persons.

Sheriff Quentin Miller emphasized the challenges faced by rescue teams, stating that the conditions are nearly impossible for accessing areas where individuals are trapped.

Despite the extensive material damage, authorities remain hopeful that many of those reported missing are simply experiencing communication blackouts due to power outages.