The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) temporarily halted some aid operations in parts of western North Carolina impacted by Hurricane Helene due to threats targeting government workers. Local officials reported these threats, causing FEMA employees to stop accepting in-person applications for federal assistance in some mountain communities.
In Ashe County, FEMA employees were not staffed in the towns of Lansing or Riverview, but operations resumed on Monday. Ashe County Sheriff B. Phil Howell urged residents to “stay calm and steady” and warned against spreading misinformation.
However, in Rutherford County, about 90 miles south of Ashe County, federal emergency response personnel halted operations due to reported threats from an “armed militia.” FEMA advised all federal responders to stand down and evacuate the county immediately.
Jack Gruber, USA TODAY
A senior FEMA official confirmed that workers were pulled back from door-to-door operations and are now working out of Disaster Recovery Centers with security. FEMA is working to combat misinformation and disinformation, addressing falsehoods about land seizures, assistance limits, and airspace restrictions.
FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell expressed concern that these falsehoods are causing fear and harming volunteers and impacted families. “It’s creating fear in some individuals, and so I worry that they won’t apply for assistance,” Criswell said.
Nathan Fish, The Oklahoman/ USA TODAY NETWORK
FEMA’s Response Efforts
-
FEMA has made operational adjustments for staff and survivor safety
-
Disaster Recovery Centers remain open as scheduled
-
Survivors can continue to register for assistance
-
FEMA is working with local law enforcement to assess security posture
How to Help
-
Volunteer with reputable organizations
-
Donate cash to support relief efforts
-
Check official sources for accurate information
Resources
-
FEMA’s official website for Hurricane Helene updates
-
National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster for volunteer opportunities
-
Disaster Fraud and CISA Warns of Hurricane-Related Scams for information on avoiding scams
Stay informed and support those affected by Hurricane Helene.