President Biden surveyed damage from Helene yesterday | Photo: Paul E. Barker
Oct. 3. Relief efforts continue after Hurricane Helene killed at least 191 people in the Southeast. Tyler Beardsley, assistant town manager, said between Cornelius and Davidson, three trailer loads and four pickups filled with water were sent to Avery and Ashe counties yesterday. A relief effort organized by businessman John Hettwer has focused on McDowell County, Marion in particular.
Cornelius Police are accepting donations from 9 am to 4 pm today and Friday for victims of Tropical Storm Helene in the Community Room in Town Hall.
It looks like there is a long, uneven road ahead and hope is fading for those still missing almost a week after Helene passed through. In addition to power and internet outages, some sewer systems are damaged, according to an eyewitness in Banner Elk.
Helene by the numbers
As of 7 pm yesterday, the NC Chief Medical Examiner said there were 56 storm-related deaths North Carolina.
To report that you have been unable to reach a person in Western North Carolina, call 211.
A total of 26 shelters have been opened, housing 1,244 people. Plans are in place to open additional shelters.
Search and rescue operations are ongoing. A total of 55 search and rescue teams from North Carolina and beyond, consisting of more than 1,600 personnel have conducted search and rescue operations during this event.
More than 500 people have been rescued by the NC National Guard. More than 150 pets have also been rescued.
To look at power outages in the Southeast vs. nationwide, click here.
Donate
As of Wednesday morning, the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund raised $2.3 million dollars to help those in Western North Carolina.
If you would like to donate to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund, visit nc.gov/donate.
Due to dangerous road conditions, and the need to maintain open routes for emergency operations, travel to Western North Carolina is strongly discouraged.
Volunteer
If you are seeking information on volunteer opportunities, visit nc.gov/working/volunteer-opportunities/volunteernc.
Source: Office of Gov. Roy Cooper
