Stories of Service: Oregonians Aid East Coast Hurricane Response

Hurricane Helene: A Multi-State Response

When Hurricane Helene struck the East Coast, it brought a whirlwind of challenges that tested emergency responders and volunteers alike. From preemptive actions in Atlanta to post-storm relief efforts across Georgia, the hurricane showcased both the frenzy and effectiveness of disaster response.

Preparation Before the Storm: Alex Dolle’s Perspective

In Atlanta, Alex Dolle, a SERV-OR volunteer since 2022 witnessed the city’s preparation efforts, which reflected both foresight and adaptability. While the direct effects of Hurricane Helene on Atlanta were minimal, the timing of the storm coincided with a massive relocation effort at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta (CHOA).

This preplanned operation involved moving all patients from the Egleston campus to the newly opened Arthur M. Blank campus within a tight 12-hour window. Supported by 60 ambulances and numerous public safety partners, the relocation required precise coordination. Though unrelated to the hurricane, the proximity of the storm created additional complexities, including concerns over supply chain disruptions.

Alex described the effort as a testament to the resilience of healthcare systems and emergency planners, noting, “The ability to coordinate such a significant move during a time of uncertainty highlighted the strength and adaptability of our teams.”

Post-Storm Support: Sarah Swofford’s Deployment

Further south in Macon, Georgia, Sarah Swofford, the Lane County Public Health Reserve Corps Supervisor, participated in a two-week deployment with the American Red Cross to support post-hurricane relief efforts. Drawing on her extensive experience, Sarah oversaw sheltering and evacuation centers, managing operations for thousands displaced by the storm.

Power outages affected tens of thousands, and hundreds required prolonged sheltering. “Every day felt like solving the most complex jigsaw puzzle imaginable,” Sarah explained. Her responsibilities included coordinating arriving volunteers, allocating resources, and addressing rapidly evolving needs at 12 shelters and 10 evacuation centers.

Despite the whirlwind workload, moments of humor and camaraderie helped sustain morale. Sarah recalled daily updates of everything that went wrong were updated on a sign (see photo) daily, for laughs, and also to use as injects for future exercises.

Unified Lessons in Emergency Response

From the urban preparations in Atlanta to the rural recovery efforts in Macon, Hurricane Helene highlighted several critical lessons:

• Preparation and adaptability are essential. Whether relocating a hospital or managing shelters, flexibility ensures challenges are met swiftly and effectively.
• Teamwork and communication drive success. Collaborative efforts across multiple agencies demonstrated the power of working together.
• Self-care is crucial for responders. Sustaining energy and focus requires attention to hydration, nutrition, and rest, even during the busiest moments.

Hurricane Helene served as a reminder of the unpredictability and challenges of disasters. Yet, through the dedication of individuals like Alex Dolle and Sarah Swofford, the coordinated efforts of responders and volunteers underscored the resilience and determination that define effective emergency response.

Written by: Alex Drungil from contributions by Alex Dolle and Sarah Swofford