Storm kills at least 64 as North Carolina reels from devastating floods

President Joe Biden approved a major disaster declaration for North Carolina, where at least 10 people have died and flooding brought major destruction across the state.

The approval makes federal funding available to people in 25 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, the White House Press Office said in a statement Saturday.

“Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster,” the statement said.  

More counties and forms of assistance could be added after ongoing damage assessments are completed.

ASHEVILLE, N.C. —A historic village in western North Carolina is under water after bearing the brunt of devastating flooding damage from Hurricane Helene.

Tree branches, logs and a dumpster floated across Asheville’s Biltmore Village, renowned for being built and owned by a single individual.

Resident Tammy Borgesen was among the dozens of people standing outside a downtown hotel, one of the few places with Wi-Fi access, hoping to connect with loved ones.

“We’ve been trying to get an email or a text out to just let everybody know we’re ok,” said Borgesen, who had water but no power at her home. 

Water levels reached several feet, with some areas nearing the tops of street signs. Fast-moving water surged above front-door steps, inundating buildings and small businesses as Asheville appeared nearly flattened by Helene.

More than 200 people have been rescued from floodwaters in North Carolina, Gov. Roy Cooper’s office said in a statement Saturday. The Department of Transportation said more than 400 roads are closed in the state, impeding travel and rescue efforts.

Read the full story here.