North Carolinians Bury Loved Ones In Backyards: ‘They’re Way Underreporting The Numbers’
In a heart-wrenching consequence of Hurricane Helene, families in North Carolina are burying their deceased loved ones in backyards due to overflowing morgues. Reports indicate that the death toll across six states has reached at least 227, with North Carolina suffering nearly half of those fatalities.
Desperation is evident as families struggle to find appropriate burial places for their loved ones. One Asheville resident remarked, “It’s so much worse than they’re saying,” suggesting that officials are significantly underreporting the number of deaths.
Authorities have confirmed that many bodies remain unaccounted for and need to be identified, further complicating the situation.
Local officials expressed frustration with the slow response from both state and federal authorities. “According to folks on the ground — fire, medical, law enforcement officials — they’re way underreporting the numbers,” stated one North Carolina official. With morgues filled to capacity, deceased individuals are being transported around the state in search of burial sites.
Criticism is mounting against General Major Todd Hunt, the director of the North Carolina National Guard, for delays in deploying troops to assist with recovery efforts. Residents are demanding immediate action as they grapple with the overwhelming loss and the need for support from their government.
