Greenwood County Struggles with Aftermath of Hurricane Helene and Series of Earthquakes

Greenwood County Faces Challenges After Hurricane Helene and Unsettling Earthquakes

Greenwood County, S.C., is grappling with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, which brought significant flooding and damaging winds to the area. Just as the community was beginning to pick up the pieces, it was shaken by a spate of small earthquakes on Sunday, adding to the already challenging situation. Residents are still reeling from the storm, which claimed at least one life and caused extensive damage before moving on to the North Carolina mountains.

After the Storm: Recovery in Progress

Friday marked the first full day following the lifting of the state of emergency in Greenwood County. Yet, the community has not fully returned to normal. Approximately 315 homes were reported damaged as a result of Helene, and around 12,000 residents have applied for assistance from FEMA. Local officials are doing their best to support those affected, with hot meals still being served to residents coping with the storm’s destruction.

One local resident tragically lost his life when a tree, uprooted by the storm, crashed into his home. This heart-wrenching incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by natural disasters.

Earthquakes Rock the Area

As if the effects of Helene weren’t enough, residents of Greenwood County were met with the unsettling reality of small earthquakes. On Sunday alone, there were eight earthquakes reported, with residents feeling the tremors throughout the day. The largest of these quakes measured 2.5

The quakes were centered primarily near Coronaca, just a few miles north of Greenwood. The quakes ranged in intensity, the most significant occurring at around 10:10 a.m. on Sunday. Local resident Jamie Ward Hyde commented on the Greenwood County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, “My entire house shook at 10:10!”

Aftershocks Throughout the Day

Following the morning’s tremors, residents braced themselves as another quake measuring 2.12:40 p.m.. This was the seventh quake recorded on that eventful Sunday. Just when locals thought they had felt the last, a 1.53:15 p.m., prompting comments from residents like Kimberly Breland, who noted that she felt four of the day’s earthquakes.

Reports indicate that many residents in areas like Lakeshore and along Hwy 221 felt the tremors, although no significant damage has been reported from these quakes. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the shaking primarily affected regions just north of the county seat, including areas just miles from Cokesbury.

Community Resilience

Despite facing one challenge after another, the resilience of Greenwood County’s residents is evident. Local officials are working tirelessly to bring support and resources to those in need. The community spirit shines brightly as neighbors come together to help one another navigate the recovery process.

As recovery efforts continue and the ground settles after the tremors, residents remain hopeful. They are taking each day as it comes while working towards rebuilding their lives and homes after the devastation of Hurricane Helene and subsequent aftershocks.

Looking Ahead

For residents of Greenwood County, the focus now is on healing, rebuilding, and supporting one another. With nature having thrown its fair share of challenges their way, the community stands strong, united in the face of adversity.

Stay safe, Greenwood, and continue to lift each other up as you forge ahead in this tough time. Your strength is inspiring!