Tropical Storm Helene has caused severe flooding in the southeastern U.S. The storm has killed 25 people and forced many to evacuate. Heavy rain and fast-rising rivers have trapped entire neighborhoods. Rescue teams work around the clock to help those in danger. Meanwhile, more rain is on the way, which could worsen the situation.

Flooding Affects Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina

The storm hit Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina the hardest. As a result, many towns are now underwater. Roads are blocked, and many homes are damaged. Over 500,000 people are without power. The National Weather Service (NWS) is issuing flood warnings. They urge everyone to stay safe. In addition, emergency shelters are open for those who have lost their homes.

For more weather alerts, visit the National Weather Service.

Helene’s Path of Destruction

Helene made landfall on Friday morning. It brought strong winds and heavy rain. In some areas, up to 15 inches of rain fell in just a few hours. This led to severe flooding. The storm moved slowly, causing rivers to rise quickly. Therefore, officials issued evacuation orders right away. Many homes flooded within hours.

Furthermore, Helene is moving north, threatening North Carolina and Virginia with more flooding. For this reason, officials urge residents to stay alert and follow evacuation orders. Check for updates from FEMA.

Ongoing Rescue Efforts

Local authorities and the National Guard are helping with rescue operations. They navigate floodwaters to reach people trapped in their homes and cars. Sadly, the death toll is rising as rescuers find more victims. However, search teams remain hopeful of finding survivors in hard-to-reach areas.

President Biden has declared a state of emergency. This ensures federal help is available for recovery. Moreover, officials are focused on finding missing people and delivering essential supplies.

Long Road to Recovery

The storm has caused billions of dollars in damage. As a result, many communities will take years to rebuild. Recovery efforts have just begun. Residents should seek help from disaster relief organizations like the American Red Cross.

Safety During Flooding

Officials urge everyone to avoid flooded areas and follow evacuation orders. Additionally, shelters are open for those displaced. Emergency hotlines are also available for help. Furthermore, those affected should check local news or visit the National Weather Service for updates.