**Governor Roy Cooper Requests Major Disaster Declaration for North Carolina**

Governor Roy Cooper has taken pivotal action in the wake of Tropical Storm Helene's devastating impact, requesting a Major Disaster Declaration from the federal government. This declaration, aimed at 39 counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, seeks federal Public Assistance and Individual Assistance to aid in recovery efforts. Public Assistance focuses on reimbursing government bodies and certain non-profit organizations for emergency measures and debris clearing, while Individual Assistance provides direct financial support to affected residents.

The approval of this declaration will initiate the process of delivering essential financial aid to the hard-hit communities and individuals. Earlier this week, President Biden sanctioned Governor Cooper’s plea for a Federal Emergency Declaration, allowing federal financial reimbursement for actions taken by government entities and some non-profits in response to the storm.

“Helene brought pain and destruction to our state, and we're working to get help to people quickly,” Governor Cooper remarked. “As waters recede and winds die down, families and communities will need assistance to clean up and recover and this request can help speed up the process.”

Tropical Storm Helene's landfall on Thursday night in Florida marked the beginning of its northward journey, bringing unprecedented rainfall to North Carolina’s mountain and foothill regions. The storm has caused ongoing landslides and significant flooding in many western counties, with over 900,000 households statewide experiencing power outages. Tragically, two lives have been lost in North Carolina due to the storm, and first responders are continuing their emergency and rescue operations. Central and eastern parts of the state have also suffered, with multiple tornadoes reported and numerous counties still under flood warnings.

Authorities have deemed travel extremely hazardous in the foothills and mountains, urging residents to remain in place and avoid driving except for emergencies. The North Carolina Department of Transportation has issued strong advisories against driving through floodwaters or around road barricades, emphasizing that all roads in western North Carolina should be considered closed unless seeking higher ground.

In response to the crisis, all state resources have been deployed since Governor Cooper declared a State of Emergency on Wednesday. The State Emergency Response Team is active in supporting affected communities with necessary equipment, personnel, and resources, including North Carolina Swift Water Rescue Teams, Urban Search and Rescue Teams, and over 378 North Carolina National Guard soldiers. Utility crews from other states and Canada are also assisting in debris removal and power restoration efforts in outage-impacted areas.

Residents across storm-impacted regions are urged to stay informed through news updates and follow directives from local officials. For further information regarding traffic, power outages, shelters, and more, visit ReadyNC.gov.