A Republican congressman from North Carolina has voiced strong dissatisfaction with the federal government's reaction to the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Helene.
According to The Hill, Representative Chuck Edwards, who represents a district in western North Carolina, expressed his disappointment with the speed and scale of the federal response to the storm's aftermath.
Edwards made these comments during an interview on NewsNation's "The Hill" program, highlighting the delay in deploying federal resources to the affected areas. The tropical storm has had a severe impact on North Carolina, resulting in at least 11 fatalities and causing what some are calling the worst flooding in a century.
Governor Roy Cooper reported on Sunday that the storm had led to widespread destruction, including landslides and flooding that forced the closure of Interstate 40 and other major roads, effectively cutting off parts of western North Carolina.
Edwards expressed frustration with the timing of the federal response, noting that resources only began to arrive several days after the storm had passed. He pointed out that while the storm had concluded by Friday morning, it wasn't until Monday that Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) employees, trailers, and helicopters started to appear in the affected areas.
The congressman's comments reflect a growing concern among local officials and residents about the pace of disaster relief efforts. Edwards emphasized that the people of Western North Carolina feel let down by the slow response, especially given that the storm's impact was anticipated.
When questioned about how such a delay was possible, particularly considering the forecasts of historic flooding in Asheville, Edwards admitted he couldn't provide an explanation but reiterated the community's sense of disappointment.
In response to the crisis, President Biden has announced plans to visit North Carolina on Wednesday to assess the damage caused by Tropical Storm Helene. The President's itinerary includes a meeting at the Emergency Operations Center in Raleigh, followed by an aerial tour of the affected areas.
This visit comes as local and state officials continue to grapple with the aftermath of the storm, working to restore infrastructure and provide aid to those impacted by the flooding and landslides.
As North Carolina begins the process of rebuilding and recovery, the situation highlights the critical importance of timely and effective disaster response. The closure of major transportation routes, including Interstate 40, presents significant logistical challenges for both rescue operations and the delivery of essential supplies to isolated communities.
The severity of the flooding, described as some of the worst in a century, underscores the need for a comprehensive and sustained recovery effort. Local authorities are working to assess the full extent of the damage and coordinate with federal agencies to address immediate needs and plan for long-term reconstruction.
Edwards' critique of the federal response raises questions about the preparedness and coordination of disaster relief efforts at various levels of government. It also emphasizes the importance of proactive measures and rapid deployment of resources in the face of severe weather events.
The aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene in North Carolina has resulted in at least 11 fatalities and unprecedented flooding. Representative Chuck Edwards has criticized the slow federal response, with resources only arriving days after the storm. President Biden plans to visit the affected areas on Wednesday to assess the damage and coordinate further relief efforts.
