Recovery efforts in Western North Carolina continue in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which devastated the region and left dozens dead. Governor Roy Cooper, alongside federal officials, addressed the public today, offering updates on the search for missing residents and the progress being made in restoring vital infrastructure.
More than 90 people are still unaccounted for following the storm, which brought widespread flooding, power outages, and significant destruction across the western part of the state. Cooper expressed deep concern for those still missing and emphasized that search and rescue operations remain a top priority. “We are doing everything we can to find those still missing and bring relief to the communities hardest hit by Helene,” Cooper stated during his briefing in Asheville.
FEMA has played a central role in the response and recovery process, but the agency has faced obstacles, including misinformation and threats against its staff. FEMA Director Deanne Criswell reiterated the agency’s commitment to helping the region recover. “We will not be deterred by misinformation or threats,” Criswell said. “Our Disaster Survivor Assistance teams are resuming full operations today, and our top priority is ensuring the safety of our staff and the communities we serve.”
FEMA had temporarily scaled back some of its services over the weekend after workers faced safety threats. However, with security measures now in place, the agency is resuming normal operations. Director Criswell outlined several new safety protocols that FEMA has implemented to protect both workers and residents during the recovery process.
Governor Cooper also addressed the widespread power outages that have plagued the region since the hurricane. “Power restoration is progressing,” he said, noting that crews have worked tirelessly to bring electricity back to thousands of homes. However, he acknowledged that full restoration could still take time in some of the more remote areas affected by the storm. “We have made progress, but we know there’s still work to be done,” Cooper remarked.
One of the critical challenges ahead is the restoration of clean water to communities where water systems were damaged by the storm. Cooper emphasized that repairing water infrastructure is one of the state’s most urgent tasks, with teams working around the clock to restore service to impacted areas.
The storm, which has claimed dozens of lives, has also brought attention to the spread of misinformation regarding relief efforts. Cooper condemned the circulation of false information that has caused confusion and hindered some aspects of recovery. “The spreading of misinformation must stop. It does nothing but slow down the efforts of those trying to help,” the governor warned.
As recovery efforts continue, both state and federal officials are urging patience from the public. While many residents have already received aid, the scale of the destruction means that rebuilding and full recovery will take time. Governor Cooper concluded his remarks by commending the resilience of the communities affected and promising continued support in the weeks and months ahead.
