United States - October 02, 2024

On October 2nd, a video captured from the air revealed the heart-wrenching aftermath of Hurricane Helene in North Carolina. The footage, taken from a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, provided a bird's-eye view of the catastrophic flooding sweeping through the state, showcasing the urgent need for rescue operations.

This dramatic aerial perspective was not just a glimpse into the devastation but also a prelude to the heroic actions of the North Carolina Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team (HART). As the helicopter descended, the video transitioned from a scene of widespread destruction to one of immediate action. The NCHART team, trained to operate under the most adverse conditions, was shown rushing from the helicopter to start their life-saving missions.

The North Carolina National Guard, deploying its UH-60 Black Hawks, has been pivotal in these rescue efforts across Western North Carolina. These missions, part of a broader response to the disaster, highlight the state's readiness to tackle emergencies head-on. The HART, with its specialized training in aquatic rescues, has become a beacon of hope for those trapped in the floodwaters.