Author: Michael Phillis, Associated Press

In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, western North Carolina is facing a severe water crisis. Flooding has destroyed the city’s water system, leaving residents desperate for drinking water. The devastation caused by Helene has led to power outages, infrastructure damage, and a high death toll. With repairs expected to take weeks, residents are struggling to access clean water for basic needs. The destruction of water utilities has led to boil water advisories affecting millions of people in the Southeast. The challenging geography of the Blue Ridge Mountains has made rebuilding efforts difficult. Despite federal aid efforts, many communities are still…