1. United States
2. Minn.
3. Letter

The widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Helene in North Carolina and across the Appalachian region requires immediate and comprehensive aid to support the affected communities. Hundreds of roads have been washed out, hampering rescue efforts and the delivery of essential supplies like water to areas without power or running water. With over 600 missing persons reports filed and many families trapped in their homes awaiting rescue, resources are severely strained. The highest priorities are funding emergency relief operations to rescue stranded residents, providing temporary shelter and basic necessities like food, water and medical care, and mobilizing resources to restore critical infrastructure like roads, bridges, power and communications systems. A coordinated disaster response backed by robust federal funding is imperative to alleviate the suffering of impacted populations and facilitate recovery across this region facing catastrophic flooding.