ST PAUL, Minn. — Several state agencies and first responders are sending emergency response teams to North Carolina, while the Minnesota National Guard is providing two cargo helicopters to help transport people and resources throughout the areas devastated by Hurricane Helene.
The assistance comes after Gov. Tim Walz signed an emergency executive order Wednesday following the destruction caused by Hurricane Helene in parts of the Carolinas, Florida, Georgia, Tennessee and Virginia.
“Those recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene are not alone,” said Gov. Tim Walz in a press release. “Minnesota will be there to support the region however we can. As communities rebuild, I am grateful for the dedication of Minnesota’s first responders in answering the call to travel east to help impacted areas.”
More than 180 people have been confirmed dead, and many more are unaccounted for after the hurricane made landfall last week in the southeastern United States. The storm caused massive destruction in several areas with more than a million people still without power.
As part of Walz's emergency order, the St. Louis County mobile command post is heading down to North Carolina, while the Minnesota State Patrol and Ramsey County Sheriff's Office have also assembled teams with general law enforcement, according to the release. The Minnesota State Fire Marshal is also working with local fire departments to send equipment and personnel to some of the areas that were hit the worst.
Along with the two helicopters, the Minnesota National Guard has activated 11 soldiers, who are expected to arrive on Friday to help for at least one week.
“The Minnesota National Guard is ready to assist the state of North Carolina and help support people and communities impacted by Hurricane Helene,” said Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Minnesota National Guard Adjutant General. “We take pride in being able to answer the call when another state requests support.”
Xcel Energy is also sending employees to help restore power in the region.