Hurricane Helene Death Toll Rises to Over 200 as Recovery Efforts Intensify in the Southeast

Hurricane Helene has claimed more than 215 lives across the Southeast, making it the deadliest storm to hit the U.S. mainland since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. North Carolina has borne the brunt of the devastation, with nearly 60 fatalities reported in Buncombe County alone. Officials warn that the death toll could rise as rescue and recovery teams continue to search isolated areas.

In addition to the tragic loss of life, hundreds of thousands remain without power across the Southeast, with North Carolina particularly hard-hit. Power crews are working. . .