South Raleigh News

Governor Roy Cooper has requested a Major Disaster Declaration from the federal government for North Carolina, covering 39 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. This request seeks federal Public Assistance and Individual Assistance following Tropical Storm Helene. Public Assistance aims to reimburse government entities and some non-profit organizations for emergency protective measures and debris removal, while Individual Assistance can provide direct financial support to affected residents.

The declaration would initiate the process of providing essential financial aid to individuals and communities severely impacted by the storm. On Wednesday, President Biden approved Governor Cooper’s request for a Federal Emergency Declaration, which offers federal financial reimbursement for response actions by government entities and certain non-profits.

“Helene brought pain and destruction to our state and we’re working to get help to people quickly,” Governor Cooper said. “As waters recede and winds die down, families and communities will need assistance to clean up and recover, and this request can help speed up the process.”

Tropical Storm Helene made landfall Thursday night in Florida before moving northward, bringing record rainfall to North Carolina's mountain and foothill regions. Landslides and major flooding continue in many western counties, with over 900,000 households statewide currently without power. The storm has claimed two lives in North Carolina so far, as first responders persist with emergency response and rescue efforts. Central and eastern parts of the state have also experienced significant impacts, including multiple tornadoes reported and ongoing flood warnings as rivers rise.

Travel remains hazardous in the foothills and mountains where officials advise residents to shelter in place unless an emergency necessitates travel. The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) has cautioned that all roads in western North Carolina should be considered closed unless seeking higher ground. Motorists are warned not to drive through standing water or around barricades.

Since Governor Cooper declared a State of Emergency on Wednesday, all available state resources have been mobilized. The State Emergency Response Team is supporting affected communities with equipment, personnel, resources including North Carolina Swift Water Rescue Teams, Urban Search and Rescue Teams, along with more than 378 North Carolina National Guard soldiers. Utility crews from other states and Canada have been recruited to assist with post-storm debris removal and power restoration.

Residents throughout storm-impacted areas are urged to monitor news reports closely and follow guidance from local officials. For information about traffic conditions, power outages, shelters, visit ReadyNC.gov.

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