Nearly 90 people remain missing in North Carolina nearly three weeks after Hurricane Helene brought historic rainfall to the southeastern state. While significant progress has been made to reopen impassable roads and restore power and water systems,

Before Hurricane Helene, had you stopped by one of the many breweries, art galleries, or award-winning restaurants in Asheville, North Carolina, and spoken with anyone who lives in these parts — including me — most would have told you they felt pretty safe from climate disasters.

At least 81 people are to still missing in western North Carolina weeks after Hurricane Helene devastated the United States’ southeast. Speaking at a press conference, Governor Roy Cooper said that the individuals are still missing in the western part of the state.