President Biden has ordered the deployment of an additional 500 active-duty troops to western North Carolina to assist with recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, bringing the total to nearly 1,500 troops.

This decision responds to requests from North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper and FEMA. The newly deployed troops will enhance situational awareness and assist with resource planning.

Currently, over 6,100 National Guard members and more than 7,000 federal personnel are on the ground, aiding in life-saving support and clearing emergency routes, The Hill has reported.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has established emergency operations centers, and the Biden administration has directed $137 million in federal assistance to aid recovery efforts, with ongoing communication with local officials to ensure adequate support.

Written by B.C. Begley