NYC first responders help with Hurricane Helene rescue efforts in NC

NEW YORK CITY (PIX11) – New York City’s first responders have been sent to North Carolina to support Hurricane Helene recovery efforts.

New York – Task Force 1, a combination of FDNY firefighters, NYPD police and Emergency Management personnel, were sent to North Carolina on Thursday by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

And they’ve done quick work. The New York City emergency team has already made three rescues in Polk County, according to New York City Emergency Management. The team has also removed downed trees and constructed a walkway to help trapped residents.

“Behind every fallen tree, there’s a story,” NYC Emergency Management said in a post to X . “Behind every damage assessment and wellness check, there’s a family.”

Hurricane Helene roared ashore in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 4 hurricane late Thursday with winds of 140 mph (225 kph). It moved through Georgia, then hit the Carolinas and Tennessee.

The death toll in North Carolina has reached 11 and is expected to rise as emergency responders continue to search, according to Gov. Roy Cooper. More than 50 search teams have fanned out across the region in search of stranded people.

Across the country, more than 60 people have been killed . Several million people were without power as of Sunday afternoon.

President Joe Biden said Saturday that Helene’s devastation has been “overwhelming” and pledged to send help.

“In times of crisis, the spirit of New York City shines through,” said New York City Emergency Management.

This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press .

Emily Rahhal is a digital reporter from Los Angeles who has covered New York City since 2023. She joined PIX11 in 2024. See more of her work here and follow her on Twitter here .

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