Biden sending up to 1,000 troops to aid in Helene recovery efforts

President Biden on Wednesday directed the Defense Department to send up to 1,000 active-duty soldiers to disaster areas impacted by Hurricane Helene to help with the distribution of food, water and other supplies.

Troops will be able to be deployed starting Wednesday, the White House said, and they will allow the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to reach hard-hit areas more quickly. The White House indicated the troops would mostly be focused on North Carolina.

“These soldiers will speed up the delivery of life-saving supplies of food, water, and medicine to isolated communities in North Carolina — they have the manpower and logistical capabilities to get this vital job done, and fast,” Biden said in a statement. “They will join hundreds of North Carolina National Guard members deployed under State authorities in support of the response.

“Hurricane Helene has been a storm of historic proportion,” Biden added. “My heart goes out to everyone who has experienced unthinkable loss. We are here for you – and we will stay here for as long as it takes.”

The announcement comes as Biden is set to travel to North Carolina and South Carolina to tour storm damage and meet with local officials. Vice President Harris will be in Georgia on Wednesday to see how the hurricane has impacted the state.

“I've ensured my travel will not disrupt the ongoing response,” Biden posted on X on Tuesday. “I plan to travel to Georgia and Florida as soon as possible.”

Hurricane Helene tore through Florida, Georgia and the Carolinas, leaving millions without power and destroying homes. At least 166 people have been killed in the storm, and hundreds are still unaccounted for.