Inside the aftermath of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina
Oct 16, 2024
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Zack Colman, a POLITICO reporter specializing in climate change and energy, discusses the lack of engagement by North Carolinians with federal relief funds after Hurricane Helene. He reveals the emotional and financial struggles families face, tied to their homes. The conversation highlights the inadequacies of disaster recovery programs and stresses the urgent need for increased investment in renewable energy to meet global targets. Zack’s insights paint a vivid picture of the broader challenges posed by climate change.
Many North Carolina residents affected by Hurricane Helene hesitate to utilize federal relocation funds due to emotional and financial ties to their homes.
Residents face significant challenges navigating federal assistance options, compounded by flood regulations and a preference for familiar community environments over relocation.
Deep dives
Challenges of Relocating After Disasters
Federal programs are designed to assist individuals in relocating after natural disasters, yet many affected residents in North Carolina are hesitant to utilize these resources following Hurricane Helene. The emotional and financial ties residents have to their homes, often passed down through generations, complicate decisions about leaving their communities. Many homeowners lack flood insurance, leaving them without the necessary financial protection to rebuild after losing their homes, which were significant assets with deep personal value. Consequently, the immediate desire to restore a sense of normalcy drives individuals to focus on rebuilding rather than seeking federal assistance.
Federal Assistance and its Limitations
While federal programs offer support for rebuilding and flood mitigation, residents face significant challenges when considering these options, especially in areas prone to recurrent flooding. Individuals often find it difficult to navigate the financial implications of complying with new flood regulations and elevating their homes, which can further burden their already strained financial situations. Although the government provides various forms of aid, such as disaster relief and buyout programs, the application processes can be lengthy and may not address urgent needs effectively. Ultimately, many residents prefer to remain in familiar environments, despite the risks, due to their strong community ties and the complexities of relocating.
Congress has poured billions of dollars into programs to help people relocate after devastating natural disasters. But not many people in North Carolina are expected to tap into that federal funding. POLITICO’s Zack Colman breaks down why people aren’t taking advantage of that money. Plus, an international energy agency delivered a stark warning recently: Reaching the world’s renewable energy targets will remain a distant dream without significantly more funding.