SUMMARY: Hurricane Helen continues to impact East Tennessee and North Carolina as recovery efforts progress following devastating floods. With two weeks since the storm, Tennessee has confirmed 16 weather-related deaths, with ongoing searches for missing individuals. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation is actively pursuing nine leads. Governor Bill Lee has inspected damage in Cooch County, with over 700 workers assessing and reopening state routes, though some highways remain closed. Vigil gatherings are being held in affected communities as FEMA processes over 4,000 requests for assistance, totaling more than $1.3 million in approved funding for survivors.

TEMA has released a new report two weeks after Helene’s impact in Tennessee.

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SUMMARY: The weather this week in East Tennessee is fall-like, with sunny days in the 70s and cool nights in the 40s, providing a stark contrast to Hurricane Milton’s impending landfall in West Central Florida. Milton, expected to hit between Tampa and Sarasota as a major Category 3 hurricane late Wednesday night, may cause devastating impacts including significant storm surge and inland flooding. Although it has weakened from a Category 5, it still poses serious threats with peak storm surge exceeding a foot and rainfall potentially reaching similar amounts. Recovery will likely be prolonged, affecting Florida extensively.

This week will be filled with abundant sunshine, cooler temps, and dry conditions.

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SUMMARY: In East Tennessee, the voter registration deadline on October 7th saw an unprecedented surge in registrations, with Knox County election officials describing the day as “extremely hectic.” There was significant activity both online and in person, attracting a diverse group of new voters, including many seniors voting for the first time. Anderson County alone reported over 300 new registrants in one day, bringing their total to nearly 54,000 registered voters. Election officials encourage those who missed the deadline to register for future elections, emphasizing the importance of participation. Early voting begins on October 16th to help alleviate long lines on Election Day.

Some counties said they have seen record numbers of new voters as the presidential election approaches.

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