EPA Awards $48 Million for Water System Recovery in Hurricane Helene-Affected States
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced $48 million in disaster relief funding to support water systems in southeastern states devastated by Hurricane Helene. This critical funding will aid in restoring and strengthening drinking water and wastewater infrastructure that was damaged or destroyed by the storm.
The breakdown of funding includes:
- Florida: $17 million
- Georgia: $6 million
- North Carolina: $21 million
- South Carolina: $2 million
- Tennessee: $2 million
EPA Deputy Regional Administrator Jeaneanne Gettle commented on the importance of the funding:
“These funds are on their way to communities working hard to rebuild and harden water systems damaged and, in some cases, wiped out by Hurricane Helene. These funds, combined with funds already allocated, will allow communities to continue recovering from such a catastrophic weather event.”
This disaster relief allocation is part of the $60 million provided through the American Relief Act of 2025, which aims to fund projects that prevent, limit, or mitigate emergency situations such as hurricanes and other extreme weather events. These investments are a critical step in building resilience in water infrastructure across the Southeast.
In addition to this funding, the EPA previously allocated nearly $3 billion in 2025 through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. These programs support long-term upgrades to water systems, helping communities withstand future natural disasters.
The announcement highlights the EPA’s ongoing commitment to environmental and public health through infrastructure investment and disaster recovery.
With Hurricane Helene causing widespread infrastructure damage, these funds will accelerate repairs, improve water quality, and enhance future storm resilience for millions of Americans living in the affected states.
The funding also reflects a coordinated federal approach to recovery, focusing not only on rebuilding but on strengthening critical systems for long-term sustainability and climate adaptation.
Audio Reporting by Dale Sandlin for Southeast AgNet.