The impact of Hurricane Helene’s rainfall was widespread, reaching from the Florida panhandle up into the Carolinas, and extending into the Ohio Valley and Midwest. The amount of rainfall was staggering, with the highest reported total of over 30 inches in Busick, North Carolina. Asheville saw nearly 14 inches before their equipment failed, while Atlanta received just under a foot of rain.
When we calculate the total amount of rainfall within the storm’s footprint, it equates to approximately 40 trillion gallons of water. To put this massive number into perspective, let’s compare it to the City of St. Louis. The city covers 66 square miles, and the Gateway Arch stands at 630 feet tall. It would take 8.6 trillion gallons of water to fill St. Louis up to the height of the Arch.
If all 40 trillion gallons from Hurricane Helene were poured into the city limits of St. Louis, the city would be flooded up to 2,911 feet. This is more than 4.6 times the height of the Arch, or over a half-mile of water. The sheer volume of water that fell during the storm helps us understand the catastrophic flooding that occurred.
In addition to the immense amount of rainfall, Hurricane Helene also brought strong winds that caused widespread damage. Trees were uprooted, power lines were downed, and homes and buildings were destroyed. The combination of heavy rain and powerful winds created a perfect storm for disaster.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene left many communities devastated, with residents facing significant challenges as they begin the process of recovery. Emergency responders worked tirelessly to rescue those trapped by floodwaters and provide aid to those in need. The road to recovery will be long and difficult, but the resilience of the affected communities will undoubtedly shine through.
As we reflect on the impact of Hurricane Helene, it serves as a stark reminder of the power of nature and the importance of being prepared for extreme weather events. Climate change is causing more frequent and severe storms, making it crucial for communities to invest in infrastructure and emergency preparedness measures. By working together and taking proactive steps to mitigate the effects of future storms, we can build more resilient communities that are better equipped to withstand the challenges of a changing climate.
