**Hurricane Helene Devastates North Carolina, Causing Unprecedented $53 Billion in Damages**

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, North Carolina is grappling with the worst natural disaster in its history. Walking down Main Street in Chimney Rock, FOX Weather Correspondents Robert Ray and Brandy Campbell witnessed firsthand the immense devastation caused by the hurricane which struck the region a month ago. This catastrophe marks a significant period in the 2024 Atlantic hurricane season, with the community showcasing remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.

Governor Roy Cooper announced on Wednesday that initial damage assessments from Hurricane Helene indicate an astounding $53 billion in losses. This figure significantly surpasses the damages from Hurricane Florence in 2018, making Helene the tenth-costliest weather disaster in the United States since 1980 according to the NOAA. These estimates solely focus on the destruction within North Carolina, suggesting that Helene’s overall impact across the Southeast will rank even higher.

“The sheer scale of Helene’s destruction in our beautiful mountains is something we will not forget, but the residents of Western North Carolina are unwavering in their resolve to rebuild stronger,” Cooper stated. The storm ravaged critical infrastructure, homes, businesses, farms, and schools, prompting Cooper to propose an initial $3.9 billion relief package aimed at jumpstarting the recovery process.

Breakdown of the relief package includes $650 million for economic losses impacting businesses and non-profits outside the agriculture sector, $650 million for housing damages and assistance, and $578 million for infrastructure repairs, particularly utilities and dams. State-maintained roads will receive $55 million to cover damages and related state revenue implications, while agricultural businesses affected by the storm will get $422 million. Additionally, $420 million has been allocated for lingering recovery efforts from Tropical Storm Debby and other recent natural disasters.

The catastrophic storm claimed the lives of at least 97 individuals in North Carolina and 225 across the Southeast. Governor Cooper emphasized the challenging journey ahead for recovery but highlighted the initial funds as a crucial step forward, reflecting the staunch determination of the North Carolina community to rebuild and recover their home.