FEMA Fact vs. Rumor: Clearing Up Misinformation About Hurricane Helene Recovery

Photo byGeorgia National Guard, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

With the spread of misinformation following Hurricane Helene, North Carolina officials are urging the public to verify facts and avoid sharing unconfirmed reports.

Beware of False Claims on Social Media Regarding Helene Response

As Hurricane Helene recovery efforts continue, North Carolina officials are warning against the spread of false information and rumors on social media. This misinformation includes AI-generated content that may not accurately depict the situation on the ground. The NC State Emergency Response Team (SERT), along with local, state, and federal agencies, are working around the clock to ensure the safety of residents and accelerate recovery efforts. It is essential for the public to rely on trusted sources for accurate updates.

Stop the Spread of Misinformation with These Steps:

1. Find trusted sources like state and federal government websites, the National Weather Service, and local emergency response teams.
2. Share verified information from these sources.
3. Discourage others from sharing unverified reports and always question the source of the information before passing it along.

Debunking Common Rumors About Helene Recovery

Rumor: The state and federal government are doing nothing to help residents in Western North Carolina.

• Fact: The state’s Emergency Response Team, which includes the National Guard, federal agencies, and volunteer organizations, is actively coordinating efforts to rescue survivors, provide relief, and restore essential services. Relief missions have already saved thousands of lives, and FEMA and state resources are being deployed at unprecedented levels.

Rumor: Checkpoints are turning away volunteers and donations are being confiscated.

• Fact: Volunteers and donations are vital to recovery. The state is encouraging financial contributions to the North Carolina Disaster Relief Fund and Volunteer Organizations Active in Disaster (NC VOAD). Physical donations are not being confiscated, and logistics are in place to manage incoming aid.

Rumor: The FAA is restricting airspace, preventing rescue operations.

• Fact: The FAA is not imposing restrictions that hinder recovery. They are working closely with local authorities to ensure safe operations amid crowded airspace as rescue and supply missions continue.

Rumor: FEMA is controlling airports in Western North Carolina.

• Fact: FEMA does not operate or control airports. Local airport managers are in charge, with FEMA only present to assist in supply delivery and coordination efforts.

How You Can Help Safely

For those interested in volunteering or donating, visit www.nc.gov/volunteer for more information. Volunteers should work through established organizations already on the ground to avoid overwhelming the recovery system. Residents are encouraged to continue supporting their neighbors, but self-deploying without coordination is discouraged.

To report a rumor or get the latest verified information, visit the state's official fact vs. rumor webpage at ncdps.gov/helene.

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