Joe Biden pledges support as death toll surpasses 100 in aftermath of Hurricane Helene | US News
Joe Biden has stated that his administration will provide ongoing support to states impacted by Hurricane Helene until the recovery efforts are complete. The storm has tragically resulted in over 100 fatalities in the southeastern region of the US.
Speaking on Monday, President Biden addressed the devastating aftermath of the hurricane, with hundreds of people still missing and widespread damage in Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina, and Virginia.
Efforts to reach isolated areas affected by flooding have been hindered, with authorities struggling to deliver essential resources like water to those in need.
Biden mentioned that he has been in communication with the governors of Georgia and North Carolina and plans to assess the damage firsthand later in the week.
He also noted the possibility of convening a special session of Congress to secure additional funding to aid those affected by the hurricane.
“Our commitment remains steadfast. The Biden-Harris administration is committed to staying the course until the recovery is complete,” the president affirmed.
These remarks come just days after Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm, made landfall in Florida with wind speeds of 140mph before causing significant destruction in multiple states.
In North Carolina, the storm triggered the worst flooding in a century, resulting in 30 reported deaths in Buncombe County alone.
Debris lies where homes were destroyed after Hurricane Helene passed through the Florida panhandle. Pic: Reuters
North Carolina governor Roy Cooper anticipates a rise in the state’s death toll as rescue teams navigate impassable roads and damaged infrastructure to reach isolated areas.
Airlifts of essential supplies have been organized to reach Asheville, a city cut off from the surrounding region, with officials working diligently to provide food and water to residents by Monday.
“We are aware of the urgent needs. We are committed to delivering the necessary resources,” Ms. Pinder, Buncombe County manager, assured the public. “Rest assured, help is on its way.”
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