NC, CA still waiting for most of requested federal help after Helene, wildfires

BUNCOMBE COUNTY, N.C. — As disaster recoveries continue, western North Carolina and Southern California are both waiting on the federal government to come through with most of the money requested to help.

The state of North Carolina has estimated Hurricane Helene caused almost $60 billion worth of damages and needs in western North Carolina. It is considered the most costly storm in the state's history, both in lives and property loss.

State records show the federal government, both through FEMA and other agencies, has initially approved or sent roughly $4.7 billion of the $18.9 billion requested by the state so far. The state has a dedicated website detailing how the available money is being used and where the rest would go.

In Buncombe County , Michelle Pentecost said most of the home