Many families have been affected by storms in the United States. Storms can cause severe property damage and flooding.
As a Category 4 hurricane, Helene brought a great amount of destruction and flooding to the Southeast. At least 52 people died from Hurricane Helene, and dozens of others were counted as missing. The deaths came from North Carolina, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Virginia. More than three million individuals had no power.
The western side of North Carolina received the worst of the storm. Over 400 roads were washed out and closed, and water systems were severely damaged. Some homes and business buildings were completely wiped out.
In a news conference, Gov. Roy Cooper said, “This is one of the worst storms in modern history for parts of Western North Carolina.” Wake County Schools were closed on Sept. 27 due to the effects of Hurricane Helene.
A total of five tornadoes were spawned during Hurricane Helene. An EF3 tornado formed in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. The tornado damaged trees, injured 15 people, and destroyed 14 buildings. An EF1 tornado also occurred in Durham, North Carolina.
Agriculture teacher Micheal Bowden said, “I have been through one major hurricane, Fran. Fran decimated things with the wind, and it followed with a lot of rain. Fran destroyed crops that were still in the field, blew over trees, destroyed homes, and knocked power out for about two weeks in some areas.“
Rescues were done to help people during the hurricane. Even though people are the top priority to rescue, in Florida biologists are working together to save wildlife stranded in the aftermath.
The devastation of the hurricane caused many individuals to take refuge in shelters. Many communities are in need of food and water, because of the damage to the water systems. These systems could take weeks to repair. People are working nonstop to help provide those communities with the supplies they need.
To be prepared during a hurricane, make sure you listen to the local television or radio for updates. To stay safe during intense storms and hurricanes stay indoors and away from windows, seek refuge in a storm shelter when necessary, and move to higher ground when flooding begins.
