As Hurricane Helene leaves a trail of destruction across the Southeast, Massachusetts has stepped up to provide critical post-disaster assistance. Rescue workers and volunteers from the Bay State are on the ground, offering life-saving support to those impacted by the devastating weather event.
Teams from Massachusetts Task Force 1, made up of a diverse group of specialists including police officers, firefighters, and engineers, are currently in the areas most affected by Helene's impact. "People trapped, surrounded by water, couldn't get out, so needed the assistance with the boat to get them out," Thomas Gatzunis of Massachusetts Task Force 1 told CBS News. In a demonstration of swift response, these teams have brought boats, ATVs, and other equipment necessary for navigating the flood-damaged terrain.
The Red Cross of Massachusetts is also playing a vital role in relief efforts. Kelly Isenor, a representative for the organization, spoke on the need for long-term recovery planning. Volunteers are providing not just immediate necessities like food and shelter, but also comfort. "It's really hard to see – I'm a mom – so when I see tiny little children sleeping in a shelter... but I also I have to say I see the Red Crossers who are there bringing them toys and crayons," Isenor told NBC Boston.
Utility crews from Eversource have deployed to Virginia to restore power to millions affected by the outages. Reports indicate that more than 1,000 Florida residents are seeking refuge in Red Cross shelters. “We’ll just stay down there for as long as it takes.” Gatzunis said, in a statement obtained by CBS News.
