ASHEVILLE, N.C. — In the wake of Hurricane Helene, North Carolina is preparing for an increase in bee stings by distributing thousands of EpiPens and other medications in the Tar Heel State.

The states of Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Tennessee were the hardest hit when Helene moved through the region more than a week ago, bringing meters of rain and damaging winds.

The Category 4 cyclone uprooted trees and altered the landscape, affecting not only humans but also wildlife populations and insects.

North Carolina is home to a significant bee population, which is why health officials warn of possible encounters, especially during the recovery period.

According to the North Carolina Wildlife Federation, there are more than 500 species of bees, many of which are used for honey production.

Unfortunately, nests and hives may have been disturbed during the hurricane, potentially causing the insects to become more defensive.

According to medical experts, at least 2 million Americans are allergic to bee stings.

In the most severe cases, a sting can trigger a condition called anaphylactic shock, which requires a dose of adrenaline and medical attention.

Direct Relief, a humanitarian aid organization, says it has helped provide care centers in North Carolina with more than 2,000 EpiPen syringes to help deal with possible bee stings.

Beekeepers warn that the insects are naturally more defensive in the fall as they protect their hives from hibernation.

According to medical experts at the Cleveland Clinic, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of a bee sting.

It is recommended to take measures such as removing outdoor food, wearing protective clothing, and using unscented or non-floral products to reduce bee attraction.

More than 200 people were killed in seven states and dozens are still missing after the Helene disaster.

So far, authorities have not linked any of the deaths to stings, of which there are typically about 100 a year in the country.

Emergency managers say drowning and falling trees are the main cause of the storm’s fatalities.