North Carolina Mountains Hit Hard by Hurricane Helene Soldiers deployed to the North Carolina mountains to aid remote communities devastated by Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in Florida as a Category 4 storm. President Biden expressed concern for the reported 600 missing residents in the White House briefing, promising long-term assistance. The storm's death toll reached at least 111 across six states, with a significant impact in Asheville, N.C. The storm's aftermath left a trail of destruction, with communities far inland suffering from powerful winds and flooding. In Gerton, N.C., residents faced a landslide, with neighbors trapped under debris. Rescuers used helicopters to airlift victims, highlighting the immense scale of the disaster. Governor Roy Cooper described the damage as unprecedented in western North Carolina, emphasizing the need for aid and recovery efforts. The Biltmore Estate and nearby village were closed due to flooding, reflecting the extent of the disaster. Affected states struggled with power outages and communication disruptions, complicating rescue and relief efforts. FEMA reported ongoing challenges in road accessibility and electricity restoration, with Tennessee and Georgia also facing significant damage. Leaders, including former President Trump and Vice President Harris, visited affected areas, expressing solidarity with victims and appreciation for responders. The recovery process is expected to be arduous, with infrastructure repair and support crucial for the affected communities.