Tragic Incident During Hurricane Helene: Camper Swept Over Waterfall in Virginia

During the flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, a camper was tragically swept over a waterfall in Fries, Virginia, captured on video. The New River reached 7 feet above the major flood stage, leading to significant damage, closures, and at least two reported deaths in the state. The broader impact of the storm resulted in over 200 fatalities across six states by Thursday.

On the night of Friday during the severe flooding caused by Hurricane Helene, a tragic incident occurred in Fries, Virginia, where a camper was swept away by floodwaters and captured on video as it plummeted over a waterfall. Footage reveals the camper being carried by the turbulent waters of the New River before it ultimately vanished over the waterfall’s edge. Witnesses can be heard in the background reacting to the incident; one individual initially yells out, only to be followed by a child’s inquiry about the camper’s whereabouts. An adult’s somber response highlights the severity of the incident, stating, “Destroyed, babe. All into a million pieces.” The New River initially reached alarming levels, surging 7 feet above the major flood stage before beginning to recede later that night. In the aftermath of the storm, the New River Trail State Park made a public announcement that it would be closing indefinitely due to damage sustained during the extreme weather conditions. Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin affirmed during a press conference on Monday that Hurricane Helene resulted in at least two casualties in the state. Moreover, the storm had a broader impact, with the death toll surpassing 200 across six states by Thursday.

Hurricane Helene brought significant flooding to parts of Virginia, with the New River, in Fries, experiencing dangerously high water levels. The flooding is a stark reminder of the destructive potential of hurricanes and extreme weather events, which not only threaten lives but also lead to extensive damage to infrastructure. Given the current climate challenges, such incidents underline the importance of awareness and preparedness in flood-prone areas. The New River, known for its recreational activities, was significantly affected due to these extreme conditions, culminating in tragic events that highlight both the physical dangers posed by natural disasters and the emotional impact on communities.

The events in Fries, Virginia, during Hurricane Helene serve as a sobering reminder of the dangers associated with severe weather events. The disappearance of a camper over a waterfall amidst raging floodwaters emphasizes the need for vigilance in the face of natural disasters. As communities recover from such traumatic events, it is essential to reflect on the lessons learned regarding disaster response and preparedness to mitigate future tragedies.

Original Source: www.foxweather.com