The Department of Health and Human Services has extended the public health emergency for areas affected by Hurricane Helene. The extension, announced by HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, starts retroactively on December 23, 2024, for Georgia, December 24 for North Carolina, and December 25 for Tennessee, according to the Georgia Department of Community Health.

The Georgia Department of Community Health extended support after consulting with public health officials. This decision reflects the ongoing health, infrastructure, and human service challenges in the affected areas.

The public health emergency declared in September 2024 for Georgia (September 24), North Carolina (September 25), and Tennessee continues to provide federal support for Hurricane Helene recovery. The extension shows that communities still face challenges in public health, housing, and infrastructure, requiring continued federal assistance, as stated by the Georgia Department of Community Health.