Residents across the Carolinas are still grappling with extensive power outages following the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene. As efforts to restore electricity continue, Duke Energy reports that approximately 334,000 customers remain without power, although millions have had their service restored. The recovery process is particularly challenging in western North Carolina, where some areas may not regain power until later this week. Dominion Energy has stated that certain counties in South Carolina could remain in the dark until Wednesday. While Duke Energy has made progress, including restoring power to 1.35 million customers, complications due to infrastructure damage have delayed full service recovery in the hardest-hit regions. Crews are working tirelessly, but many communities still face long waits, with rural co-ops potentially needing weeks for complete restoration. Meanwhile, residents express their frustrations as they cope without power, some areas described as 'pitch black' at night and local schools have been forced to cancel classes. The situation remains fluid, with updates from utility companies outlining the ongoing challenges they face in restoring services.