North Carolina still recovering from historic hurricane damage

Catastrophic flooding and landslides in western North Carolina caused by Hurricane Helene in late September killed nearly a hundred people and likely caused the deaths of thousands of animals. Damages caused and recovery efforts are expected to cost more than $53 billion, Gov. Ray Cooper's administration announced this October.

"Hurricane Helene brought damage and devastation to North Carolina on an unprecedented scale. This is the deadliest storm in our state's history, and sadly, at least 96 North Carolinians lost their lives," Cooper wrote in the "Hurricane Helene Damage and Needs Assessment" report issued October 23.

When the Category 4 storm struck North Carolina on September 27, it resulted in unprecedented rainfall, leading to floods, landslides, and strong winds, causing extensive damage to infrastructure, homes, and essential services across western North Carolina.

In Polk County, North Carolina, a federal search and rescue team helps a woman and her pet dog escape flood waters after Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September. (Images courtesy of FEMA)

So severe was the damage in some areas that entire mountainsides were reportedly washed away. Widespread power and internet outages compounded the disaster, along with destroyed and damaged bridges and roads, and a lack of running water.

Thirty-nine North Carolina counties have been designated for federal disaster assistance by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. More than 40% of the state's population live in one of the designated areas.

The North Carolina VMA (NCVMA) has posted on its website information about the status of nearly 300 veterinary hospitals in affected areas. At least 14 practices were listed as "closed until further notice" while nearly 50 others were reportedly operating at limited capacity. Common issues include a lack of water, internet, or electricity, resulting in the loss of refrigerated medications.

Federal search and rescue team members look for flood survivors in Polk County, North Carolina, after Hurricane Helene made landfall in late September.

The AVMA's charitable arm, the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF), bolstered relief efforts with a $20,000 donation to the NCVMA and $10,000 donations each to Lincoln Memorial University in Tennessee and Greater Good Charities. The AVMF also awarded disaster grants totaling $7,495 for medical care to animals in the community, and $6,800 in basic necessities for veterinary professionals.

Dr. Otto Sharp, owner of Swannanoa Valley Animal Hospital in Swannanoa, North Carolina, says the AVMF grant his clinic received is helping on the long road to recovery.

"This support has been invaluable in getting our clinic back on its feet, allowing us to continue serving the pets and families who rely on us. Words cannot express how grateful we are for your support during this incredibly difficult time. You helped us provide care when our community needed it most, and for that, we are forever thankful," he said.

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