Two years after Hurricane Helene impacted much of the Southeastern U.S., many affected communities are still in recovery. A new project has documented their experiences through a graphic novel titled "Islands in the Sky: A People's History of Hurricane Helene." William Brangham discussed the project with Andrew Aydin for the PBS arts and culture series, CANVAS.
In 2024, Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Florida Panhandle, moved through Georgia, and stalled over the Carolinas, causing significant damage across six states and destroying thousands of homes and buildings. The storm resulted in 250 fatalities, marking it as the deadliest hurricane since Hurricane Katrina.
The graphic novel features 11 stories from different individuals and families in North Carolina, each illustrated by various artists. Andrew Aydin, the founder of the book and project, emphasized the importance of allowing Appalachia to tell its own story, contrasting it with the historical portrayal by outsiders.
Aydin noted that the storm's unprecedented impact was due to the amount of rainfall, the duration of the rain, and the resulting mudslides and debris. He explained that the title "Islands in the Sky" reflects the region's identity as the Land of Sky and was inspired by a radio broadcast from a church after the storm, where the pastor referred to the survivors as "islands in the sky" amidst the flooding.
Jessica Stepp Edney, a contributor to the book and a survivor of Hurricane Helene, shared her motivation for participating in the project, highlighting the lasting impact of the storm on her son, who struggles with anxiety. She expressed concern that every storm now triggers fear in her community.
Aydin acknowledged the media's historical shortcomings in accurately portraying the experiences of Appalachia, citing misinformation and exploitation. He emphasized the project’s dual purpose: preserving history and generating economic activity through community events.
The graphic novel aims to remind readers of the solidarity that emerged during the storm, as people came together to help one another, transcending political divides. Aydin concluded that the stories within the book could serve as a guide for addressing current challenges by fostering community support and connection.