The death toll from Hurricane Helene, one of the most powerful storms to hit the United States, has risen to 37 after it made landfall in Florida as a Category 4 hurricane before weakening to a tropical storm.
With wind gusts reaching up to 140 mph (225 km/h), Helene caused widespread destruction across Florida and other southeastern states, leaving a path of devastation in its wake.
North Carolina emergency officials confirmed the latest fatalities and issued evacuation warnings for residents near the Lake Lure dam, which was feared to be at risk of failure. However, later updates suggested that while the dam was still holding, its structural integrity remained compromised, prompting continued precautionary evacuations.
Authorities had earlier posted a warning on social media, urging residents below the dam to evacuate to higher ground, saying, "DAM FAILURE IMMINENT!!" Although the immediate threat has subsided, concerns over the dam’s stability remain.
Helene made landfall in Florida's Big Bend region on Thursday night, bringing 140 mph winds and a storm surge of 15 feet, flooding homes and causing severe damage to buildings. The storm continued inland, leaving millions across Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, and Virginia without power.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis confirmed two fatalities in the state, including a driver killed by a falling sign in Tampa. Five additional deaths were reported in Pinellas County.
Georgia recorded 11 deaths, including two from a trailer crash, while South Carolina reported at least 17 fatalities, many caused by falling trees. The devastation from Hurricane Helene has left communities reeling as recovery efforts continue across the region.
No comments:
Post a Comment