NORTH CAROLINA — President Joe Biden visited the Carolinas on Wednesday to survey damage from Tropical Storm Helene. He received operational briefings and met with first responders and local officials in both North and South Carolina.
The visit came amid continued search and rescue efforts underway in our area. More than 800 people have been rescued in North Carolina since Helene first hit Friday morning.
CNN is reporting 73 people have died in the Tar Heel State, including a 6-year-old boy and his grandparents in Asheville.
Effective immediately, Biden also announced that he has directed the Department of Defense to deploy up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to support the delivery of food, water, and other critical commodities to communities impacted by Tropical Storm Helene.
Forces will be available for deployment starting Wednesday. The troops will provide additional manpower and logistics capabilities, enabling FEMA and other interagency partners to reach the hardest-hit areas as quickly as possible.
FEMA said Wednesday it has received more than 30,000 applications and provided more than $2.6 million to survivors.
FEMA: FEMA has received over 30,000 applications from NC residents and provided more than $2.6 million to survivors.
— Joe Bruno (@JoeBrunoWSOC9) October 2, 2024
Cellular restoration in western North Carolina continues to improve, with less than 50% of cellular sites down as of Wednesday.
As for internet access, FEMA said it’s helped provide 67 total Starlinks to the state, including three for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Nation.
Search and rescue teams have conducted more than 1,660 rescues, evacuations and other assistance. The North Carolina National Guard has delivered more than 100,000 pounds of food and over 38,000 pounds of water to Asheville.
VIDEO: Volunteers transport resources by land, air to western NC
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