Before and after images of Western North Carolina, tell the story of the vast destruction that has occurred due to Tropical Storm Helene in these communities that is sometimes difficult to put into words.

The death toll in North Carolina has grown to 108, including 72 deaths in Buncombe County, and hundreds are still unaccounted for a week after the deadly storm ravaged communities across the mountains. In the U.S., the number of confirmed deaths reached 214 Thursday, according to a USA TODAY Network analysis.

The terrain and the cities and towns that called this region of the state home are forever changed after rivers breached their banks and flooded, and in some cases swept away, whole towns.

Here's a look at aerial and satellite views compiled by Nearmap and satellite images captured by Maxar Technologies of different locations across Western North Carolina before and after Helene hit.

Chimney Rock

Photos: Chimney Rock destruction from the ground

Lake Lure

Hendersonville

Old Fort

Spruce Pine

Before and after photos of Western North Carolina after Hurricane Helene