Tallahassee, FL – Hurricane Helene, which made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 4 storm, has been confirmed as the deadliest hurricane in the contiguous United States since Katrina in 2005. The storm resulted in at least 248 fatalities, including 175 direct deaths, and caused an estimated $78.7 billion in damages, according to the National Hurricane Center’s (NHC) newly released Tropical Cyclone Report.
According to the NHC, Helene brought catastrophic inland flooding, extreme winds, storm surge, and multiple tornadoes across the southeastern U.S. States including Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky experienced widespread destruction. The storm surge was particularly severe in the Florida Big Bend, where water levels rapidly rose, inundating coastal communities. Entire neighborhoods were submerged under several feet of water, with emergency responders conducting numerous high-water rescues.
The hurricane also produced some of the highest wind gusts recorded in the region. Reports indicate gusts of 87 mph in Ocala, Florida, and 84 mph in Savannah, Georgia. These intense winds downed power lines, uprooted trees, and damaged homes and businesses across multiple states. Thousands of residents were left without power for days, complicating rescue and recovery efforts. The combination of strong winds and saturated ground led to an extensive number of downed trees, blocking roads and delaying emergency response teams.
Beyond wind damage, Helene’s slow-moving nature contributed to significant rainfall and flash flooding. Several rivers in Georgia and the Carolinas reached historic flood levels, submerging neighborhoods and stranding residents. Rainfall totals exceeded 15 inches in some areas, overwhelming drainage systems and forcing thousands to evacuate their homes. Officials in South Carolina reported that portions of the state’s highway system were impassable due to floodwaters, hindering disaster relief efforts.
The storm’s impact extended beyond coastal communities, as tornadoes spawned by Helene caused additional destruction in inland areas. Multiple tornadoes were reported in North Carolina and Tennessee, some of which destroyed homes and businesses. The combination of extreme weather events led to one of the most complex and widespread emergency responses in recent history.
Officials continue to assess the full extent of the devastation as recovery efforts are underway. In the aftermath, FEMA and state agencies have deployed resources to assist with rebuilding efforts, including temporary housing, financial aid, and debris removal. Many residents are still without access to clean water and essential supplies, prompting ongoing relief operations from both government agencies and nonprofit organizations.
Experts warn that the financial toll of Hurricane Helene may continue to rise as assessments of infrastructure damage and economic losses progress. The agricultural sector, particularly in Georgia and South Carolina, has reported substantial crop losses, which could have long-term economic effects.
