RICHMOND, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – Governor Youngkin returned to the Emergency Operations Center bunker outside of Richmond to receive and provide updates on recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Helene. The Governor reported that AEP, the primary power provider in the affected area, has deployed 7,000 workers to restore electricity, with about 14,000 customers still without power. Of those, 2,000 are in hard-to-reach areas, where restoration will take longer.

Youngkin also noted that 28 water systems remain under “boil water advisories,” and residents with wells in these areas are strongly urged to flush them and exercise extreme caution.

Regarding road conditions, the Governor said that challenges persist in VDOT’s Salem and Bristol Districts, where two primary roads remain impassable. One section, a mile and a half of U.S. 58, is a long-term rebuild. Additionally, 58 secondary roads in the districts are still blocked. Debris removal continues at an emergency pace.

One of the priorities is reopening schools. According to Youngkin, there is a mix of schools that are open, closed, or delayed. Earlier this week, counties submitted waiver requests to the federal government, extending meal services to schoolchildren and disadvantaged populations.

Health care has also been a priority, with the Virginia Department of Health and the Medical Reserve Corps, composed of volunteer doctors, nurses, and EMS professionals, providing assistance. Top requests include emergency prescriptions and medical equipment, such as mobility devices and oxygen tanks, that were lost or damaged. Tetanus shots are also in high demand.

The Governor stated that Virginia Emergency Management, FEMA, and local resources are deployed across the region. The expedited emergency declaration has opened up additional resources for southwest Virginia, with more counties expected to be added. Currently, 150 FEMA personnel are on the ground, with 50 more arriving soon, and additional deployments planned. Individuals can reach FEMA services by calling 1-800-621-3362, visiting FEMA.gov, or using the FEMA app. FEMA, in partnership with VDEM, is also establishing regional centers, and teams are going door-to-door to assist residents with filling out forms.