Amid the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, Mayorkas' claim that FEMA is 'tremendously prepared' is being scrutinized.

The shortcomings in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) were exposed by video footage of U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas' earlier this year, where he touted FEMA's preparedness before Hurricane Helene.

FEMA is facing a funding crisis as hurricane season intensifies in the southeastern United States, with the organization only having enough funds to handle the aftermath of Helene but not enough to last the entire season.

In contrast to Mayorkas' summer assurances that FEMA could handle upcoming weather crises, this warning stands.

"In a July video, Mayorkas assured reporters that FEMA is well-prepared. He emphasized that the agency's role is to ensure that communities at risk are also prepared."

"FEMA has been exercising its response to extreme weather events, including heat, which some parts of the United States are currently experiencing, due to their increasing frequency and gravity, Mayorkas stated."

FEMA's disaster relief fund was in a precarious position, according to Mayorkas, who anticipated running out of funds by mid-August.

Mayorkas emphasized the importance of being prepared for the "effects" of intensifying weather events as climate change intensifies disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires.

Last week, Hurricane Helene caused significant damage to the East Coast, with floodwaters and mudslides wiping out communities such as Asheville, North Carolina. Residents in these areas have been without electricity, cell service, and are facing shortages of water, gas, and food.

"Retired Asheville, North Carolina, Police Officer Steve Antle told Planet Chronicle Digital that people are getting on edge and afraid due to looting in the area. With no power and no traffic signals, there are not enough police officers to control the situation."

On Monday, FEMA arrived in Western North Carolina with federal resources, but as of Thursday, some residents reported not having seen any federal officials yet.

Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., informed Planet Chronicle host Sean Hannity that no FEMA representative had visited certain areas of South Carolina, but he had been assured they would after he brought the matter to their attention.

"Graham said, 'You know where I'll look for money to help with this disaster? There's a couple hundred billion dollars in the Inflation Reduction Act that hasn't been spent.'"

""I will attempt to allocate funds from the Inflation Reduction Act to address this disaster," Graham stated."

This report was contributed to by Audrey Conklin of Planet Chronicle Digital and The Associated Press.