The situation in Western North Carolina following Helene remains dire and unsettling. Communication is still inconsistent, and power has not been widely restored. Basic necessities like food and shelter are scarce, and temperatures at night are dropping. Elon Musk has become a key player in the recovery efforts. He has agreed to provide Starlink units, allowing people to connect with friends and family. Starlink has advanced significantly, showcasing impressive technology that could aid in the current crisis. Additionally, X (previously known as Twitter before Musk’s acquisition) has become an essential platform for many in the area.
This use of X is twofold: Firstly, residents are utilizing it to find missing individuals, reminiscent of the desperate search efforts seen in New York after 9/11. Many heartbreaking posts are circulating as people seek information about their loved ones. Examples of personal but unverified accounts are emerging, such as messages from a resident who received updates from a lineman friend in Asheville: “This is the update from my lineman friend in Asheville: I went up old fort road where it connects to number 9. The whole area is gone. There’s a 100-foot ravine where houses used to be. Children are wandering around, asking for their parents. People are BEGGING for water, and FEMA’s Black Hawk helicopters are flying overhead. I can’t even describe the smell of the dead bodies. I’m in disbelief.”
There are numerous reports like this, with hills described as islands, isolating people due to the floodwaters. Other accounts mention bodies in vehicles and trees. Despite 1,000 people reported missing today, the true number of lost lives remains unknown, leading residents to believe the toll may be much higher. There are countless tragic stories, but this illustrates the immense loss many are facing. It’s an overwhelming situation for everyone involved. While we can’t confirm rumors of unrecorded mass casualties, the reality is already devastating. If you haven’t yet, please consider how you can help. While few people own helicopters, those who do are in a unique position to assist right now. For the rest of us, donations can make a difference. If you’re nearby, consider volunteering or offering shelter to those who suddenly find themselves without homes.
As the nights grow colder in September, the need for support is urgent. Imagine being in that situation: your home washed away, all your belongings gone, feeling hungry with no food available, and unable to escape because the water is still too high. No one knows you’re there, leaving you with nowhere to go except the damp ground, shivering without a blanket, hoping wild animals stay away. This is a desperate situation.
These individuals need your help urgently. Please contribute in whatever way you can. If nothing else, reach out to your elected representatives and urge them to take meaningful action.
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