Responding to Hurricane Helene

Updated: September 27, 2024

Hurricane Helene, fueled by record-warm waters in the Gulf of Mexico, made landfall in Florida as a Category 4 storm on September 26, 2024.

With sustained winds of 140 mph, Helene caused significant damage, impacting millions of residents and businesses. In Florida, Helenecaused extensive damage along the Gulf Coast from massive flooding and power outages with record storm surge and high winds. As Helene moved inland, it brought heavy rains and strong winds to Georgia causing widespread power outages and structural damage. By the time Helene reached the Carolinas, it downgraded to a tropical storm while continuing to cause flooding and power outages, particularly in North Carolina. The storm’s impact extended to Kentucky, Tennessee, and Virginia where millions experienced power outages and severe weather conditions including flash flooding and landslides. At least 30 deaths have been reported.

Response is underway from all sectors to stabilize the situation and begin recovery in affected communities. As part of this, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation is monitoring the rapidly changing situation through an extended network of state and local chambers and offers resources on this page as well as on the Small Business Resilience Hub.

NGOs Assisting With Relief Efforts 

• Airlink
• American Red Cross
• Convoy of Hope
• Direct Relief
• GlobalGiving
• International Medical Corps
• Mercy Chefs
• Salvation Army
• World Central Kitchen

This page will provide up-to-date guidance and resources to help the business community effectively contribute to response efforts.