SUMMARY: The toll from Hurricane Helen has risen to at least 230 confirmed deaths, with over 170 people still missing. As Florida braces for Hurricane Milton, crews are clearing debris while residents prepare by filling sandbags and stockpiling supplies. The National Hurricane Center warns that Milton will bring life-threatening storm surge and hurricane-force winds, affecting both the West and East Coasts. Forecasts suggest Milton may strengthen to a category 3 storm upon landfall. Efforts are underway to support recovery from Hurricane Helen while preparing for Milton’s impact.

The National Hurricane Center warned Sunday that Milton is expected to become “a major hurricane late Monday” and could reach Category 3 major hurricane strength as it barrels toward Florida’s Gulf Coast.

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SUMMARY: In East Tennessee, numerous survival stories emerge after Hurricane Helen’s devastating flooding. Patty and Jack Kale lost their Greene County home and have been staying at a local church for the past week. The retired couple combined two cots to create a more home-like environment amidst their uncertainty. With no insurance, they are unsure if their water-damaged home can be salvaged. Along with their pets, they faced rising waters that nearly overwhelmed them. The Red Cross is providing assistance; currently, around 75 people are sheltered in the area as recovery efforts continue.

Stories of survival continue to pour in from East Tennessee.

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SUMMARY: East Tennessee and Western North Carolina faced severe flooding from Storm Helen, devastating local communities like Newport, Asheville, and Hot Springs. In Newport, the Pigeon River inundated Main Street, submerging key buildings such as the courthouse and police department, leading to the evacuation of inmates. Asheville’s River Arts District and Biltmore Village were significantly damaged, while Hot Springs, a popular tourist spot on the Appalachian Trail, was left covered in mud and struggling to recover. With ongoing power outages and missing persons, community members are focused on rebuilding. Donations can be made to assist recovery efforts, raising over $61,000 so far.

It’s been more than a week since devastating flooding from Helene impacted East Tennessee and Western North Carolina. Here are some areas before and after the flood.

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