The country has rallied around western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene left disaster-struck mountain towns and cities struggling to get the help and resources they need. As local teams have sprung to action,

Tropical Storm Helene's storm surge destroyed parts of North Carolina last week. Here's how to apply for FEMA assistance, without flood insurance.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency is tasked with helping states and communities hit by disasters like Hurricane Helene

Criminals may try to obtain money or steal personal information through fraud or identity theft. According to FEMA, “thieves try to apply for FEMA assistance using names, addresses and Social Security numbers they have stolen from people affected by the disaster.