Biden administration launches massive response to Hurricane Helene
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In a recent government meeting, officials provided updates on the federal response to Hurricane Helene, which has significantly impacted several states, including Florida, North Carolina, and South Carolina. President Biden has approved federal assistance requests for seven states, including major disaster declarations for the hardest-hit areas.
FEMA Administrator DeAnne Criswell, who has been actively involved in the response efforts, is currently in North Carolina, where she is assessing the damage alongside Governor Roy Cooper. The administration has emphasized its commitment to supporting affected communities, with the president stating, \"The nation has your back.\"
As of now, over 3,500 federal personnel are deployed to assist with search and rescue operations, with an additional 600 responders expected to arrive soon. The Department of Defense has also activated helicopters and high-water vehicles to aid in these efforts. The National Guard is providing support from eight states, contributing personnel and equipment to assist with road clearance and rescue operations.
Power restoration remains a critical focus, with approximately 2 million people still without electricity across the impacted states. Utility crews from 31 states and Canada are working tirelessly to restore power, and FEMA is ready to deploy generators as needed. Communication restoration efforts are underway, with FEMA collaborating with telecommunications providers to establish temporary cell sites.
FEMA is expediting assistance for disaster survivors, including immediate cash payments for essential items. Disaster recovery centers are being opened to streamline access to federal support, and outreach efforts are being made to ensure that those in need can register for assistance.
The meeting underscored the extensive coordination among various federal agencies, with the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Energy also playing vital roles in the recovery efforts. As the situation evolves, the administration remains committed to providing ongoing support to those affected by Hurricane Helene.
FEMA Administrator DeAnne Criswell, who has been actively involved in the response efforts, is currently in North Carolina, where she is assessing the damage alongside Governor Roy Cooper. The administration has emphasized its commitment to supporting affected communities, with the president stating, \"The nation has your back.\"
As of now, over 3,500 federal personnel are deployed to assist with search and rescue operations, with an additional 600 responders expected to arrive soon. The Department of Defense has also activated helicopters and high-water vehicles to aid in these efforts. The National Guard is providing support from eight states, contributing personnel and equipment to assist with road clearance and rescue operations.
Power restoration remains a critical focus, with approximately 2 million people still without electricity across the impacted states. Utility crews from 31 states and Canada are working tirelessly to restore power, and FEMA is ready to deploy generators as needed. Communication restoration efforts are underway, with FEMA collaborating with telecommunications providers to establish temporary cell sites.
FEMA is expediting assistance for disaster survivors, including immediate cash payments for essential items. Disaster recovery centers are being opened to streamline access to federal support, and outreach efforts are being made to ensure that those in need can register for assistance.
The meeting underscored the extensive coordination among various federal agencies, with the US Army Corps of Engineers and the Department of Energy also playing vital roles in the recovery efforts. As the situation evolves, the administration remains committed to providing ongoing support to those affected by Hurricane Helene.
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