Hurricane Helene: Why primary and secondary narratives matter
Hurricane Helene hit Western North Carolina in September 2024, causing property damage, business closures, and a loss of tourism revenue for the region. (NC State) The destruction of buildings, such as homes and farms, affects economic prosperity as food from farms becomes harder to produce and sell, and families adjust their finances and relocate. Governor Stein of North Carolina has issued a $1 billion relief fund to NGOs committed to aiding affected North Carolinians. (NC Gov)
At a N4CSGA conference I attended, a staff member from a Western North Carolina Community College recollected the external and internal impacts of Helene's actions: families unhoused in tents, a lack of resources, damaged buildings, and the emotional struggles of navigating difficult times, supporting others, and maintaining personal self-care.
Having both the primary and secondary accounts of Hurricane Helene's impacts was important. It shaped my outlook on natural disasters, recognizing the importance of both economic and emotional support in these situations.