Vice President Kamala Harris visited North Carolina to assess Hurricane Helene recovery efforts, meet with families impacted by the storm, and help at a donation center. She provided updates on a disaster declaration that unlocked funds for affected individuals and met with local officials, including mayors and volunteers. Harris also greeted National Guard members loading emergency aid onto military aircrafts.
As the cleanup of Helene continues, the National Hurricane Center issued advisories for storm systems expected to impact Florida, with Tropical Storm Milton forecasted to become a major hurricane. FEMA has provided support in North Carolina, including meals, water, and personnel, and Governor Roy Cooper thanked the agency for its response. FEMA has deployed workers and approved emergency aid to victims in affected areas.
President Joe Biden called on Congress to replenish critical disaster relief programs running out of funds and warned of potential shortfalls in FEMA’s disaster relief funds. Helene is considered one of the deadliest storms in U.S. history, with at least 214 deaths and many still missing. Donald Trump has made disaster response a focus of his campaign, with accusations of playing politics with relief efforts.
Harris and the Biden administration have vowed long-lasting federal support for communities impacted by Helene, and efforts are ongoing to provide assistance and resources to areas affected by the storm as recovery continues. Overall, Harris’s visit underscored the importance of ongoing support and relief efforts in the wake of natural disasters.
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