The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced the release of $100 million in emergency funds to aid in the rebuilding of roads and bridges damaged by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. This initial round of funding is intended to expedite the repairs and reopening of critical transportation routes in the state.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg expressed the urgency of providing this assistance, stating, “We are providing this initial round of funding so there’s no delay getting roads repaired and reopened, and re-establishing critical routes.” He emphasized that the Biden-Harris administration is committed to supporting North Carolina throughout the recovery process and additional federal resources will follow.
The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene includes widespread flooding that has ravaged several towns and resulted in the tragic loss of at least 229 lives, with 116 confirmed fatalities in North Carolina alone. The western mountains of North Carolina experienced over 8 inches of rain, with some areas receiving more than a foot of rainfall.
The impact of the storm has led to the closure of hundreds of roads across Western North Carolina, prompting a significant increase in air traffic as rescue teams conduct aerial searches for survivors. Air traffic over the region has surged by 300% since the storm cleared, underscoring the urgent need for relief efforts to reach affected areas.
Mudslides have obstructed major highways, including Interstate 40, while approximately 400 roads have been closed due to damage caused by Hurricane Helene. The Department of Transportation reported extensive damage to Interstate 40 at multiple locations, further complicating transportation logistics in the region.
One resident, Alvin Stiles of Morganton, North Carolina, shared his harrowing experience of losing his home to floodwaters, leaving him to seek shelter in a tent. Despite the devastation, Stiles expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from the community, remarking, “I didn’t know there was as many people that care about people like they been caring here today and yesterday for us, it’s been overwhelming.”
Community efforts to assist those in need have been commendable, with initiatives such as hot breakfast services at Asheville High School providing essential support to both recipients and volunteers. Diane Fair, a beneficiary of these services, expressed optimism and resilience in the face of adversity, stating, “There is no reason to hold my head down, God is still in the working business, and I’m blessed to be here.”
President Biden visited the Carolinas to survey the flood damage firsthand, observing the destruction from the air and pledging federal support to cover all debris removal and emergency protective measures in North Carolina for six months. This commitment aims to alleviate the financial burden on the state and facilitate a swift recovery process.
The relief funds allocated by the Department of Transportation will enable the North Carolina Department of Transportation to expedite eligible repairs to damaged infrastructure, ensuring the prompt restoration of critical transportation networks in the state. The collaboration between federal and state agencies underscores the collective effort to support communities affected by Hurricane Helene.
In conclusion, the aftermath of Hurricane Helene has underscored the resilience and unity of North Carolina residents in the face of adversity. As the recovery process unfolds, the provision of emergency funds and ongoing support from government agencies and community organizations will play a crucial role in rebuilding and restoring affected areas. The spirit of solidarity and compassion demonstrated in response to this tragedy reaffirms the strength of the human spirit in times of crisis.
