Floods from Hurricane Helene hit North Carolina, causing widespread devastation. The French Broad River flooded the town's main street, submerging homes and businesses on September 28. Authorities reported flood levels reached up to 27ft in some areas of Marshall,

Helene’s death count in North Carolina is by no means final. But Lau was one of dozens known to have been killed after the hurricane’s powerful remnants reached Western North Carolina, with more fatal tragedies yet to be reported or even discovered.