Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina in 2024, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The storm's impact was exacerbated by heavy rainfall in the days leading up to the storm, causing saturated ground and landslides. The Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) bureaucracy has been criticized for hindering the recovery efforts, with officials citing a lack of clarity and consistent guidance. The state of North Carolina has received limited federal funding to cover the damage, with estimates suggesting $60 billion in damage. Despite the challenges, there has been progress in the recovery efforts, with businesses reopening and tourism returning to the area.
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