Hurricane Helene has left at least 52 dead and millions without power across the southeastern US. The powerful Category 4 hurricane made landfall in Florida late Thursday, bringing with it 140 mph winds and torrential rains. The storm caused extensive flooding, infrastructure damage, and power outages as it moved from Florida through Georgia, the Carolinas, and Tennessee.
In Florida, the Big Bend region was devastated by the storm. Five deaths occurred in Pinellas County, where residents who stayed behind found themselves trapped by rising waters and forced to hide in their attics. Tampa’s Davis Islands saw significant flooding from the storm surge, leaving homes and businesses underwater. The scale of the damage took many by surprise, as the storm’s intensity exceeded expectations.
Georgia faced severe flooding, with three firefighters killed when trees fell on their vehicles. The state’s power grid suffered catastrophic damage, leaving millions without electricity. Crews are working around the clock to restore power, but utility companies warned that it could take several days before full service is restored. Floodwaters submerged homes, and some areas were completely cut off from rescue teams.
North Carolina experienced severe landslides and flash flooding, especially in the western part of the state. Asheville was largely underwater, with residents trapped and unable to communicate due to downed power and cell service. A dam overtopped, prompting emergency evacuations, while a tornado critically injured four people in Nash County.
South Carolina saw more than 40% of its residents lose power as the storm tore through. Roads were blocked by fallen trees and debris, and emergency crews struggled to reach some areas. Two firefighters were killed when trees struck their vehicles, and authorities warned residents to avoid floodwaters that could contain dangerous debris and live wires.
In Tennessee, flooding was widespread, particularly in eastern regions. In Unicoi County, a hospital was surrounded by water, and helicopters were used to evacuate patients and staff. Landslides blocked major roads, and emergency services were on high alert as flash flood warnings continued throughout the state.
