How to help those affected by Hurricane Helene

The full impact of Hurricane Helene won't be known for weeks, but groups from both the public and private sector are mobilizing efforts to help those affected by the Category 4 storm that has killed at least 120 people and already caused billions in damage.

If you want to help, experts say:

— Cash is king. Many groups providing aid will only accept cash donations because the needs are not fully known and it does not require additional resources to get the donations to those in need. Food and clothing drives may be helpful later in the process in specific communities, but it can divert manpower to connect the right people with the right items.

— Give to charities already working in the area. Because damage from Helene is spread out over six states in an area that reaches from Florida's Big Bend to the Appalachians in Virginia, experts say to look for groups with a history of aid in the specific city or state you want to help so that your donation reaches your intended area more quickly. If you want suggestions, Charity Navigator and GoFundMe have curated lists of organizations and people in the affected areas,