Mon Oct 07 23:55:39 UTC 2024: ## Hurricane Helene Death Toll Rises to 227, Leaving Trail of Destruction

**Asheville, NC** – The death toll from Hurricane Helene, which slammed into the Southeast on September 26th, has risen to 227, with two more deaths reported in South Carolina on Saturday. The Category-4 storm left a path of devastation in its wake, washing away homes, destroying roads, and knocking out power and communication for millions across six states.

The storm’s impact was particularly devastating in North Carolina, where approximately half of the victims were located. The city of Asheville, nestled in the western mountains, bore the brunt of the storm’s fury. A week after the hurricane, workers are still clearing mud and debris from streets and businesses along the French Broad River, which flooded after the storm.

**Federal Assistance and Community Support**

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved over $27 million in individual assistance for North Carolina residents impacted by Helene. More than 83,000 people have registered for aid. In Buncombe County, where Asheville is located, FEMA assistance has surpassed $12 million.

Country music star Dolly Parton has pledged $1 million to the Mountain Ways Foundation, a non-profit organization providing immediate aid to Hurricane Helene flood victims. Her East Tennessee businesses and the Dollywood Foundation are also matching her donation with an additional $1 million.

Walmart US president and CEO John Furner announced the company, including Sam’s Club and the Walmart Foundation, will donate a total of $10 million to hurricane relief efforts.

**Recovery Efforts Continue**

Throughout the affected areas, residents and volunteers continue their tireless efforts to rebuild. In Newport, Tennessee, mud still clings to basement walls and floodwaters have damaged the city hall and police department. Further east in Del Rio, residents are clearing debris and dealing with damaged homes, some of which slid off their foundations.

Despite the widespread devastation, communities are showing remarkable resilience, coming together to support those in need and begin the long process of recovery.

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