For many in the Carolinas like the Colemans, Hurricane Florence took out what little security they had. "It's like you get ahead three or four steps, then you go back 20," Elizabeth Coleman said.

The first thing that hit Ashley Simpson when she opened her car door was the rotten mold smell, leftover from the sewage-contaminated floodwaters. The next thing to hit her were the gnats flying out.

Visiting North and South Carolina, Trump called Florence "one of the most powerful and devastating storms ever to hit our country" and promised federal support for disaster relief.

In the aftermath of the catastrophic storm, officials are encouraging people to volunteer and donate. Here's a guide on how to do that.

While Hurricane Florence advanced, and mandatory evacuation orders were issued, many chose to stay in their homes.

A special task force of NYPD and New York Fire Department members are assisting in efforts to save people caught up in the wind and waters of Hurricane Florence. They left New York on Sept. 11.

In addition to getting flashlights, bottled water and food, hurricane preparation these days includes stockpiling apps on your phone.