Gov. Cooper thanks first responders as Hurricane Matthew anniversary nears

RALEIGH (WTVD) -- Friday, Governor Roy Cooper thanked search and rescue teams for helping during Hurricane Matthew.

Sunday will mark the one year anniversary since the hurricane struck North Carolina, killing 31 people and causing an estimated $4.8 billion in damages.

So far, $1.5 billion has been allocated for Matthew recovery but more state and federal funds are needed for North Carolinians to fully recover, according to the Governor Cooper's Office.

Numbers provided by the state officials show more than 98,700 homes were damaged, more than 660 roads were closed, and 2,336 people were rescued by swift water teams during Matthew.

Governor Cooper has proclaimed October 6 as "Search and Rescue Day."

A ceremony was held at the Executive Residence Friday morning.