This is an unprecedented tragedy that requires an unprecedented response,” North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper said.

The Southeast grappled Sunday with rising death tolls, a lack of vital supplies in isolated, flood-stricken areas, and the widespread loss of homes and property while the devastating toll of Hurricane Helene became more clear and officials warned of a lengthy and difficult rebuild.

Massive rains from the powerful Helene left people stranded, without shelter and awaiting rescue around the U.S. Southeast.