Overview
- The storm caused at least 108 deaths in North Carolina and roughly $78.7 billion in damage across several states, with nearly $60 billion estimated in North Carolina.
- The Trump administration released $1.15 billion in emergency transportation funds this week, as Gov. Josh Stein seeks an additional $13.5 billion from Washington beyond prior federal allocations.
- FEMA assistance to North Carolinians has topped $1 billion, overall federal support exceeds $6 billion by the state’s count, and Congress approved $9 billion last December, yet state officials say needs far outweigh available aid.
- Key repairs remain lengthy and costly, including a $5 billion hit to state roads and bridges, full restoration of I‑40 not expected until 2028, and Blue Ridge Parkway damage projected up to $2 billion.
- A ProPublica analysis found higher‑income homeowners in several hard‑hit rural counties received larger FEMA housing awards than lower‑income residents, while community groups like BeLoved Asheville continue to fill gaps by rebuilding homes and clearing debris.