FEMA Faces $10 Billion Shortfall as Hurricane Helene's Devastation Pushes Funding to the Brink

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Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas issued a stark warning, stating, “FEMA’s current funding is insufficient to carry us through the hurricane season,” and called for urgent Congressional action.

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Despite a $20 billion replenishment, FEMA may need an additional $10-15 billion to meet the needs through November.

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The catastrophic damage left over 150,000 households seeking assistance, with repair costs projected to surpass $5 billion. Experts warn that without additional funding, recovery efforts could be delayed, intensifying the economic instability in affected areas.

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Past hurricanes, such as Harvey and Maria, highlight the risks of underfunding, which previously led to delays in relief efforts.

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North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper described the devastation in his state, lamenting that "entire communities were wiped off the map," with repair costs expected to exceed $5 billion.

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With three more storm systems being monitored in the Atlantic, FEMA’s resources are at risk of being depleted further, making proactive steps like pre-positioning supplies and enhancing community preparedness crucial.

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A bipartisan group of Senators from the affected states has urged Congress to reconvene, stating, “We must act now to ensure FEMA has the resources to support our constituents through these unprecedented times.”

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As recovery efforts continue, the nation is watching closely for decisive action from Congress to prevent further crises.

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Florida Man Ready to Kayak Through Another Storm After Helene's 7-Foot Surge – Will Milton Be Worse?

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