ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Elon Musk has accused the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) of obstructing relief efforts carried out by SpaceX personnel in North Carolina, following recent natural disasters in the area. In a statement shared on social media, Musk referenced a communication from a SpaceX engineer working on the ground, claiming that FEMA was interfering with shipments of goods and services intended for affected residents.
“FEMA is not merely failing to adequately help people in trouble, but is actively blocking citizens who try to help,” Musk wrote, citing reports from his team in Asheville. According to the engineer, SpaceX has deployed over 300 Starlink units, which have provided critical internet connectivity in areas where traditional communications have been disrupted.
The engineer also mentioned that SpaceX has established two large operational bases to facilitate the distribution of aid by helicopter. However, they claim that FEMA has seized locally sourced goods and services and is preventing further deliveries without official escort. “The big issue is FEMA is actively blocking shipments and seizing goods and services locally and locking them away to state they are their own,” the engineer wrote.
“Hey Elon, update here on site of Asheville, NC. We have powered up two large operating bases for choppers to deliver goods into hands. We’ve deployed 300+ starlinks and outpour is it has saved many lives,” the SpaceX employee reported. “The big issue is FEMA is actively blocking shipments and seizing goods and services locally and locking them away to state they are their own. It’s very real and scary how much they have taken control to stop people helping. We are blocked now on the shipments of new starlinks coming in until we get an escort from the fire dept. but that may not be enough.”
FEMA has not yet responded to Musk’s allegations. The federal agency is responsible for coordinating disaster response efforts in the United States and often works alongside local governments and private organizations during emergencies.
SpaceX’s involvement in disaster relief has focused on deploying Starlink satellites to restore internet service in areas where infrastructure has been damaged. Musk’s company has played a prominent role in other disaster-stricken areas in recent years, with Starlink technology seen as a lifeline for emergency responders and residents.
Local authorities have not commented on the specific claims regarding FEMA’s alleged obstruction of relief supplies, but coordination between federal agencies and private companies is often crucial in large-scale disaster recovery efforts.
