A firefighter in Fairview, North Carolina, died Friday while helping with rescue operations from Hurricane Helene, officials said Wednesday. 

At least 166 people have died across the southeast following storms and devastating flooding from Helene, and at least 700 are still missing, according to the Associated Press.

In Buncombe County, which includes Fairview, officials say they have found 57 dead.

Homes and businesses washed away in Helene's floods in western North Carolina and many people are still stranded, without access to water, power or communication. 

Firefighters and rescue crews have been working to get to these communities, but conditions remain dangerous.

"It is with the deepest regret and sorrow that the Fairview Fire Department announces that a Fairview firefighter was killed in the line of duty on Friday September 27, 2024 while conducting rescue operations in the Hurricane Helene response," the Fairview Fire Department posted on Facebook.

The name of the firefighter is being withheld until the next of kin has been notified of their death.

"We ask that everyone to pray for our Firefighters Family family," Fairview firefighters said. "A special thank you goes to all of the hundreds of emergency responders and support people who have traveled to support."

Firefighters said the emergency response is still active and they ask everyone to stay off the roads.