In the wake of Hurricane Heleen, many North Carolina residents have taken to social media and online platforms to voice their frustration over the perceived inadequacies in the rescue and help response. Common complaints include delayed arrival of emergency services, with some individuals stranded for days without access to food, water, or medical assistance. Many residents in rural or remote areas felt neglected, as rescue teams prioritized urban centers, leaving smaller communities to fend for themselves.
There were also widespread concerns about the disorganization of relief efforts, with some shelters reported as overcrowded and undersupplied. Several people expressed disappointment in the slow distribution of essential supplies, such as bottled water, food, and generators, especially in hard-hit regions like Asheville. In addition, power restoration efforts were criticized as uneven, with some areas waiting significantly longer than others to have electricity restored.
The lack of clear communication from local and state authorities added to the frustration, leaving many residents confused about evacuation plans, relief efforts, and when assistance would arrive. While emergency response teams worked tirelessly, the scale of the disaster left many feeling that the overall response was insufficient and uncoordinated, leading to growing public dissatisfaction.