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PHOTO RELEASE: DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin Visits Western North Carolina to Provide Update on FEMA Disaster Relief Efforts

Release Date: April 7, 2026
WASHINGTON – Today, the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Markwayne Mullin, in cooperation with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and local North Carolina leadership, participated in multiple events in Western North Carolina to highlight updates on disaster relief achievements following Tropical Storm Helene and Hurricane Florence.

Secretary Mullin received an emergency management briefing in Lake Lure, met with Chimney Rock residents and Mayor Peter O’Leary to discuss disaster relief efforts, and hosted a discussion roundtable with U.S. Senator Ted Budd, Representatives Chuck Edwards and Tim Moore, FEMA Administrator Karen Evans, and with first responders and other local leaders.

Last week, President Donald J. Trump, Secretary Mullin, and FEMA announced an additional $103 million for North Carolina recovery efforts.

On Monday, FEMA awarded more than $26 million to eliminate flood risks for severely damaged properties in North Carolina. The state will use this funding, administered through FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, to buy 75 damaged residential properties in Henderson, Polk, and Yancey counties, bringing needed relief to the homeowners.

In total, FEMA has provided more than $5.4 billion to North Carolina for recovery efforts, and additional approved funding will continue to support rebuilding in the affected areas. Additionally, FEMA has paid nearly $564.2 million in grants to survivors to directly help families recover.

“Today, I had the opportunity to meet the fearless State and Local leaders of western North Carolina who are rebuilding their communities after the devastation of Hurricane Helene,” said Secretary Mullin . “I saw first hand hurricane damage still present and will be making sure FEMA relief continues to help Americans rebuild their homes and communities. I am humbled and honored to serve the citizens of our great Homeland. Thanks for having me.”

Below are photos from Secretary Mullin’s visit today:

Secretary Mullin receives Lake Lure disaster briefing

Secretary Mullin speaks with Chimney Rock Mayor Peter O’Leary

Secretary Mullin greets Chief of Bat Cave Fire Department Steve Freeman

Secretary Mullin meets with state, local, and federal leadership

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• Topics
• Disasters

• Homeland Security Enterprise

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• Disaster Relief

• Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

• Secretary Markwayne Mullin
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