(Fixes typographical error) (Reuters) -Southeastern U.S. states started a massive cleanup and recovery effort on Sunday after winds, rain and storm surges from Hurricane Helene snuffed out power, destroyed roads and bridges and caused catastrophic flooding from Florida to Virginia.

Hurricane Helene killed and destroyed far and wide — from Tampa to Atlanta to Asheville, North Carolina, its high winds, heavy rains and sheer size created a perfect mix for devastation.

Parts of the U.S. Southeast are strggling to recover from the damage inflicted by powerful Hurricane Helene Massive rains brought by Hurricane Helene have left many people stranded or homeless as the cleanup begins from the monster tempest that killed at least 64 people.

In Valdosta, Georgia, search and rescue teams are trying to reach people trapped inside heavily damaged buildings, Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp said. "We are asking for patience as we prioritize critical medical emergencies and essential services,