Hurricane Helene’s Economic Impact Could Reach $160 Billion Due to Infrastructure Destruction and Business Losses

Hurricane Helene’s economic damage is estimated to reach between $145 and $160 billion, placing it among the most expensive hurricanes in U.S. history. The financial toll comes from a wide range of factors, including the destruction of infrastructure, massive property loss, business interruptions, and long-term recovery efforts across multiple states. In particular, the damage is concentrated in Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, where extreme flooding and storm surges have crippled vital infrastructure.

One of the largest contributors to the economic damage is the widespread destruction of roads, bridges, and power grids. In Florida’s Big Bend region, storm surges of up to 15 feet submerged coastal communities, destroying homes and businesses, while inland flooding washed out critical infrastructure. Across North Carolina, more than 400 roads remain closed due to flooding and landslides, while communication lines and utility services have been heavily impacted, leaving millions without power. The cost to repair and replace these essential structures, which also include water and gas lines, will be enormous and may take months or even years to fully complete.

In addition to infrastructure failure, business disruptions are a significant driver of the overall economic impact. The flooding and power outages have caused widespread closures, not only halting local businesses but also affecting industries across the region. Supply chains have been disrupted, and essential services, including healthcare facilities, are struggling to function. The extensive damage to commercial properties, factories, and retail stores will add further to the losses, while many businesses face prolonged periods of inactivity as they wait for power and water to be restored.

Beyond the immediate damage, the recovery and rebuilding efforts will carry substantial long-term costs. With entire communities cut off due to landslides and damaged roadways, the logistics of delivering aid and rebuilding infrastructure will increase expenses. Reconstructing homes and businesses will also place a strain on local economies, with insurance claims and federal disaster assistance playing a crucial role in funding the recovery.

Hurricane Helene’s economic toll is now expected to exceed initial projections as the full extent of the destruction continues to emerge. The combination of severe property damage, infrastructure failure, and business disruption has made it one of the costliest storms in recent U.S. history, on par with other devastating hurricanes like Katrina and Harvey. As recovery efforts ramp up, communities across the Southeast are preparing for a long and challenging road ahead.