Hurricane Helene live updates: Death toll rises to 166 ahead of Biden-Harris visit

Buncombe County Sheriff Quentin Miller confirmed that 57 residents died as a result of Hurricane Helene.

More than 100,000 people in the county remain without power, Buncombe County Manager Avril Pinder said at a press conference Tuesday.

Water and meals will continue to be delivered at several distribution sites throughout the county. Neighboring counties have stepped in to help and are currently receiving 911 calls from Buncombe County, Pinder said.

Scott Dean and a responding national search and rescue team found Buncombe County to be in “several miles of total devastation.”

Authorities said 19 federal urban search and rescue teams are operating across the state, trying to reach people unable to leave their homes and provide assistance. Local police and fire departments are trying to answer calls in more accessible locations.

Pinder said Buncombe County and state officials are also considering the placement and use of mobile morgues in the county.

There is no longer standing water in the village of Biltmore, but roads remain blocked due to the damage, which will continue to hamper the response and removal of debris from the Asheville neighborhood, Pinder said.

Dr. Jennifer Mullendore, Buncombe County’s medical director, said the county accepts donations of some medications and provides primary care to adults in need. The NC Board of Pharmacy helps direct people to pharmacies currently open in the state.

Asheville Deputy City Manager Ben Woody reiterated that it will take weeks to fully restore water service to the city.

– ABC News’ Victoria Arancio