As of Thursday, the death toll in the county had increased and water was still expected to take weeks to fully restore, officials said.

Relief efforts continue in Asheville and the Western North Carolina area where a major disaster due to Tropical Storm Helene has left communities devastated, roads impassable and thousands without power.

During the 4 p.m. government update of Buncombe County on Thursday, officials reported the death toll has risen to 72 in Buncombe County.

Buncombe County officials provided an update to the number of deaths caused by Helene on Thursday. Officials said 72 deaths have been confirmed and that the number could rise. They also said more than 200 are still missing.

The Buncombe County Sheriff’s Office has released crucial information regarding ongoing recovery efforts in the wake of Hurricane

The Buncombe County Elections Office is sharing an update on its preparation for the Nov. 5 elections following severe damage and loss of life across the county. The office said that the safety of its staff is a top priority. The office is closed right now and has no water, phone service or internet.

As search, rescue and recovery efforts continue in the wake of Hurricane Helene, more deaths have been confirmed. NBC News' Marissa Parra reports that many residents of isolated mountain communities are still waiting for help.