**Hurricane Helene Ravages Inland Communities in North Carolina**

In a dramatic display of nature's power, Hurricane Helene unleashed torrential rains hundreds of miles inland, causing widespread destruction in mountain communities typically shielded from hurricane impacts. Hendersonville, N.C., found itself at the center of this unusual weather event, where the hurricane's heavy rainfalls overflowed rivers and streams, leading to severe flooding.

"Usually, when we think about hurricane flooding, our minds go to coastal regions in states like Florida, Louisiana, and Texas," explained Jeremy Porter, who heads climate implication research at First Street, a company specializing in climate risk analysis. "Western North Carolina and the Appalachian Mountains are often overlooked as flood-prone areas."

The aftermath of Helene has been devastating. Across six Southeastern states, the death toll has exceeded 160. Floodwaters have ripped through roads, disrupted cell service, and filled towns with debris and mud. The renowned Blue Ridge Mountains, known for their stunning fall foliage, bore the brunt of the storm.

Tourist attractions like Asheville have not been spared either. Officials in the city have indicated that it could take weeks to restore clean drinking water. In many areas, the high water marks are still visible as brownish-orange mud stains along riverbanks, serving as a grim reminder of the storm’s fury.