More than 50 people have died across five states as Hurricane Helene's massive rains and powerful winds sent devastating floods and widespread destruction across the U.S. Southeast, leaving millions without power.

Airports opened rapidly, but other services — segments of major bridges, a sewage treatment facility and beaches — lagged in recovering.

Residents of the booming region are confronting a new reality: Even when storms make landfall far away, their impact is being felt.