When Hurricane Helene struck Brock Long’s home in Hickory, North Carolina, he found himself without power for four days. Despite the personal challenges, Long didn’t hesitate to jump into action. Armed with his expertise as a former FEMA administrator and his deep connection to the region, having graduated from Appalachian State in Boone, Long headed into the heart of the devastation in western North Carolina.
In a recent conversation with me, Long shared the struggles that emergency managers face in the wake of such a disaster. From rebuilding communication networks to reaching remote communities in the rugged terrain of the mountains, the obstacles are significant. While Long expressed gratitude for the willingness of ordinary citizens to help, he cautioned against haphazardly inserting oneself into the relief efforts. He emphasized the need for a coordinated and systematic approach to ensure effective assistance reaches those in need.
Here are some key insights from our conversation:
- Challenges of Limited Communication: Loss of cell service poses a major hurdle for first responders. Long highlighted the difficulty in obtaining situational awareness when communication is disrupted. Temporary solutions like mobile communication units can help bridge the gap, but debris clearance is essential to restore infrastructure effectively.
- Phases of Response: Long outlined the phases of disaster response, beginning with search-and-rescue and life-sustaining missions. As the immediate crisis stabilizes, attention shifts to initial recovery and eventually long-term community rehabilitation.
- Impact of Terrain: The mountainous landscape presents unique challenges, with roadways often collapsing or blocked. The supply chain is disrupted, making it difficult to deliver essential resources. Emergency managers must prioritize which roads to repair first to facilitate life-saving operations.
In addressing the broader policy implications of such disasters, Long stressed the need for proactive measures. He called for community-disaster loan programs to support regions facing economic strain post-disaster. Long-term solutions, such as incentivizing resilient building practices and fostering partnerships with insurance companies, are crucial for mitigating future losses.
Long’s remarks underscored the resilience and generosity of communities in times of crisis. While the outpouring of support is heartening, he emphasized the importance of channeling donations and volunteer efforts through established organizations like VOAD agencies. Coordinated assistance ensures that resources are efficiently deployed where they are most needed.
As North Carolina grapples with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Long urged patience and sustained commitment. The road to recovery will be long, with lasting effects on local economies and communities. Supporting these regions through tourism and economic revitalization will be essential in rebuilding and restoring hope for the future.
In conclusion, the collective response to a disaster like Hurricane Helene requires a united effort. By working together, from local volunteers to policymakers, we can build back stronger and more resilient communities. As Long aptly put it, "It’s not FEMA’s disaster – it’s all of our disaster." Let us stand together to overcome this challenge and emerge stronger than before.
