Source: AVMA
Hurricane Helene, a Category 4 storm, devastated western North Carolina in late September, causing catastrophic flooding and landslides. The disaster killed 96 people, likely claimed thousands of animal lives, and caused over $53 billion in damages, according to Gov. Ray Cooper’s October report. Torrential rainfall led to widespread power outages, destroyed infrastructure, and washed away mountainsides, leaving 39 counties designated for federal disaster assistance and affecting over 40% of the state’s population.
Veterinary services were severely disrupted, with nearly 300 clinics impacted. At least 14 clinics remain closed, while others struggle with limited resources due to water, electricity, and internet shortages. The American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) and other charities contributed over $40,000 to support clinics, animal care, and Veterinary professionals. Despite the devastation, local veterinarians, like Dr. Otto Sharp, expressed gratitude for the support that enabled them to resume operations and aid the community’s recovery.
Read the full story HERE: https://www.avma.org/news/north-carolina-still-recovering-historic-hurricane-damage