Report: Updated damage caused by Hurricane Florence at $17 billion

A home is seen in floodwaters from Hurricane Florence in Marion, S.C., Sunday, Sept. 16, 2018. Volunteers are rescuing animals who were left behind as flood waters rose in both South and North Carolina.

NORTH CAROLINA — The North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management has announced an updated damage estimate from Hurricane Florence.

[ [North Carolina lawmakers approve $400M in Florence spending] ]

The latest estimates show damage from Hurricane Florence at $17 billion, which is up from the previously reported $13 billion.

Authorities said the new estimate is based on actual inspection data from the North Carolina Department of Insurance. It is believed the estimates will continue to change.

The original $13 billion was based on estimates and projections.

"Six weeks ago, Hurricane Florence's powerful storm surges, winds, and rains brought unprecedented devastation to our state, causing an estimated $17 billion in damage," Governor Roy Cooper said. "I've spent time since then visiting with families, businesses, and local officials in the impacted area and it's clear that we have to recover smarter and stronger to better withstand future storms."

[ [Governor gets firsthand look at Florence aftermath in Richmond County] ]

FLORENCE COMPARED TO OTHER HURRICANES 

  • Hurricane Matthew -- $4.8 billion
  • Hurricane Floyd -- between $7 and $9.4 billion

[ [Comparing Hurricane Florence with past storms in the Carolinas] ]

Officials reported more than 130,000 people have registered with FEMA for individual assistance and over $108 million in individual assistance has been approved for homeowners and renters.

To register for FEMA assistance, click here or call 1-800-621-FEMA.  

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