Hurricane Helene Death Toll NC: The official death toll from Tropical Storm Helene has risen to 95 in North Carolina, according to the latest reports from the state’s Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). This devastating storm left a trail of destruction across multiple counties, claiming lives through floods, landslides, and a range of storm-related incidents.

The toll was initially believed to be higher in some counties, with early reports from Buncombe County indicating a significantly larger number of fatalities. However, after further verification, the county’s death count was revised down to 42. Officials clarified that initial discrepancies were due to communication breakdowns and the complexity of identifying storm-related deaths in the immediate aftermath. Buncombe County Public Information Officer Christina Esmay stated that early confusion about fatalities occurred because “all deaths were being classified as storm-related.” The numbers were adjusted as authorities identified those who actually perished due to the storm.

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Across 21 counties, North Carolina has confirmed storm-related deaths ranging from drowning, motor vehicle crashes, and hypothermia to traumatic injuries from falling trees and landslides. Buncombe County remains the hardest hit, with 42 deaths, followed by Yancey County with 11 fatalities. In total, 32 of the confirmed deaths were caused by drowning, making it the most common cause of death from Helene.

Statewide Efforts to Track and Confirm Deaths

The North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME) has been central to the process of verifying storm-related deaths. Collaborating with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines, the OCME investigates suspicious or unattended deaths that could be attributed to the storm. With assistance from local authorities and a federal Disaster Mortuary Operational Response Team, the state continues to search for additional victims in the hardest-hit areas of Western North Carolina.

DHHS representatives have assured the public that the office is adequately staffed and that there has been no backlog in processing fatalities. “OCME is sufficiently staffed for this response,” said Kelly Haight, a DHHS media relations manager, emphasizing the dedication of staff working around the clock to process decedents and provide closure for grieving families.

A Community in Mourning: Victims’ Stories

The personal toll of the storm has been felt in communities across the state, with victims ranging in age from small children to the elderly. Among the deceased are a 91-year-old woman recovered from a flooded area in Yancey County, a 70-year-old man struck by a falling tree in Mecklenburg County, and several children under the age of 10.

In some counties, deaths were caused by residents being unable to access vital medical care due to the storm’s destruction of infrastructure. Others succumbed to injuries sustained during landslides or while attempting to flee rising waters. Several deaths have yet to be fully identified, and officials are working to confirm details as more information becomes available.

A Grim Outlook, But Hope for Recovery

While the death toll may rise as search efforts continue, DHHS does not expect a significant surge in numbers from the worst-affected counties. Nevertheless, the state is focused on recovery and long-term rebuilding efforts, as communities cope with the loss of loved ones and homes.

The storm has also renewed discussions about North Carolina’s preparedness for such extreme weather events, with officials calling for improved communication and infrastructure to better withstand future disasters. As the state begins to recover from the impact of Helene, the resilience of its people will be tested in the months and years ahead.

For a full list of confirmed deaths by county, see below: