On the evening of September 26^th, 2024, Hurricane Helene made landfall as a Category 4 storm. The storm’s strong wind gusts and severe flooding caused unprecedented damage to communities across Western North Carolina (WNC). This is not the first time WNC communities have been affected by severe storms. In 1916, “The Flood by Which All Other Floods are Measured” hit, causing devastating flooding that cut off contact with the rest of the world. After the Flood in 1916, a detailed emergency preparedness plan was created to address the potential impacts of severe storms. Despite these efforts, in 2004, tropical storms Ivan and Frances caused $7 million in damage across seven counties. 

Much like after these natural disasters, North Carolina has begun the recovery process to rebuild communities and implement supports that will hopefully prevent such devastation. While disaster relief efforts have already started, the long-term impacts of Helene on children and families will continue to be assessed. Below, we have outlined prominent equity considerations for North Carolina as we move forward.