Residents of Asheville, North Carolina felt safe from climate disasters before Hurricane Helene hit. The storm caused historic flooding, downed trees, and power outages, leading to health risks for those reliant on medical equipment. Over two weeks later, many are still without electricity. The aftermath includes debris, boil-water advisories, and challenges accessing clean water. FEMA has provided aid, including water and food rations, and an emergency program is in place for uninsured individuals to replace lost prescriptions and medical equipment. Officials are concerned about the mental health impact and emphasize the importance of connecting with others and reducing stress during the recovery process.
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Mountain Town Confronts an Unexpected Public Health Catastrophe
