Latest updates: Hurricane Helene claims at least 40 lives in US south-east

Hurricane Helene has caused a death toll of over 40 people as it rampaged through the south-eastern US, with at least 15 deaths reported in Georgia and 17 in South Carolina. Fatalities have also been recorded in North Carolina, Florida, and other states as the storm continues to wreak havoc. In Tennessee, flooding led to 50 people being trapped on the roof of a hospital, requiring a dangerous rescue operation by state emergency agencies and the National Guard. The storm has caused mudslides and washed out sections of Interstate 40, leading to road closures and chaos. In addition to the tragic loss of life, property damage is expected to be substantial, with tens of billions of dollars in damage and economic impacts predicted. Helene, now downgraded to a tropical depression, is expected to continue affecting the region with catastrophic flooding and other major impacts over the next 48 hours. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and stay safe as the storm passes.

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