As the Biden-Harris administration mobilizes a comprehensive federal response to Hurricane Helene, it is also tackling a growing wave of misinformation spread by political opponents, including former President Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans.

The White House has labeled this disinformation “dangerous” and said it threatens to mislead hurricane survivors about their access to vital resources and federal aid.

President Biden recently reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to those suffering from Hurricane Helene.

“Days before this storm hit, I directed my administration to position federal personnel, critical supplies and more near the storm’s path,” he said. “We are moving heaven and earth to ensure that everyone affected by this storm gets what they need. To all those affected: my government and the nation stand with you – and we will continue to support you for as long as it takes.”

Under Biden and Vice President Harris’ leadership, more than 6,400 federal personnel are on the ground, delivering more than $110 million in federal aid, with more aid on the way. The massive operation, described in a White House fact sheet, reflects a “whole of government” approach that began with extensive pre-landing preparations and continues with the immediate deployment of recovery and reconstruction resources.

However, misinformation hinders these efforts. One of the falsehoods spreading online is the claim that emergency relief funds are being used to support undocumented immigrants. The board quickly refuted this.

“No money is diverted from disaster response needs. None,” a White House official clarified. FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, which funds the agency’s response efforts, is allocated strictly to disaster-related expenses and remains unaffected by other initiatives.

Another widespread falsehood claims that FEMA is confiscating the property of hurricane survivors whose land is deemed unlivable. The government has dismissed this as categorically false, insisting that “FEMA cannot seize your property or land.” They added that applying for disaster assistance does not give the federal government any claim or control over personal property.

Another claim – that FEMA will provide only $750 in recovery assistance – was also exposed as misleading. FEMA officials clarified that $750 is an initial Serious Needs Assistance payment to cover essentials such as food, water and emergency supplies. It is one of many forms of support available, including significant additional funds to repair storm damage, secure temporary housing and replace lost agricultural assets.

In another effort to stoke fear and confusion, misinformation is circulating claiming that FEMA and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are restricting airspace in North Carolina, hindering private relief efforts. White House officials refuted this, noting that North Carolina has no airspace restrictions. Pilots only need to coordinate with local airports in Asheville or Rutherford for landing permits, ensuring safe access for all parties involved in the relief effort.

The White House said it is actively working to combat these lies through official digital channels, focusing on X, a platform owned by Elon Musk, an outspoken Trump and MAGA supporter. The administration is working with online publishers and influencers to disseminate factual information about the federal response. For example, MeidasTouch recently partnered with FEMA to produce a video debunking the misinformation, which received significant attention on social media and traditional media platforms.

The government is also using text messaging, a resilient communication tool, to reach individuals in affected areas where internet connectivity remains unreliable. The opt-in service delivers critical updates directly to residents, ensuring access to accurate information during the ongoing recovery process.

“Unfortunately, as our response and recovery efforts continue, we have seen a large increase in false information circulating online,” a senior White House official said. “Scammers and bad faith actors are promoting disinformation about the recovery efforts, which are wrong, dangerous and must stop immediately.”

The Biden-Harris Administration has pledged to keep its commitment to providing the public with accurate information and will continue to combat damaging narratives that jeopardize recovery efforts.

“We will be there every step of the way,” Biden promised.