Cooper to update Helene recovery in western NC as death toll climbs

Gov. Roy Cooper will return to western North Carolina on Monday where he's expected to give an update on recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene.

Cooper's visit comes as the storm is now blamed for at least 115 deaths in North Carolina alone. Helene's death toll climbed to 235 across the Southeast this weekend, and officials say the number is expected to rise as crews reach more remote areas in western North Carolina.

The governor will be joined by FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell and other officials at the Asheville airport for a news conference at 11:35 a.m. Following the stop in Asheville, Cooper is scheduled to visit Chimney Rock and Lake Lure, where Helene caused widespread damage.

"To wake up one morning and everything that you own be gone is a tragic situation," Cooper said Friday. "This is an unprecedented situation that's going to require an unprecedented response."

Cooper said over 50,000 people have applied for FEMA assistance, telling reporters over $6 million has been distributed in North Carolina. He encouraged anyone with damaged property to apply as soon as possible for federal aid.

As the recovery continues, state lawmakers say they're prepared to approve initial disaster relief this week to address Helene's destruction. The Republican-controlled legislature already had a one-day session scheduled for Wednesday, but House Speaker Tim Moore and Senate leader Phil Berger issued a news release saying details are being worked out on how the General Assembly can facilitate the state's response. #Helene #Hurricane #News