Greetings from sunny Greenwood!
Today started with a smattering of clouds, hinting at rain but much to everyone’s relief, they cleared away. By afternoon, these fleeting clouds made way for a gloriously sunny day—just perfect for embracing the chill in the air. With a cool high of 61°F and northern winds between 10 to 15 mph, the weather sure does feel like a deep breath of fresh, crisp air. Later, as night falls, expect those clouds to vanish entirely under an expanse of clear skies and the temperature to drop to a low of 37°F.
From the Storm’s Aftermath to Recovery
It’s been a whirlwind these past two weeks with Hurricane Helene raging through County, leaving destruction in its wake. One cannot forget the heartbreaking loss of John Patterson on Maxwell Avenue, whose unfortunate demise was the hurricane’s sole confirmed casualty here. Our thoughts remain with his loved ones. With immense relief, city and county officials confirmed that the storm’s state of emergency has ended. We’re now turning the page towards recovery and restoration.
The Road Back: Communities Coming Together
The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) remains bustling, but now it’s on a path to normalcy. Thanks to the coordinated response involving multiple local and state agencies — including the National Guard, Red Cross, city and state agencies like CPW and Duke Energy, and more — the crisis response hit the ground running. Derek Oliver, the county’s emergency services director, has been pivotal in liaising with partners like the Red Cross for food distribution. It’s heartwarming to see the tables lined with thank you notes from residents and children alike, which stand testament to the wave of community support.
Restoration Efforts in Full Swing
Hurricane Helene wreaked havoc, and now 99% of power has been restored across Greenwood. With the roads slowly clearing — 150 roadblocks lifted and over 50 miles traversable again — we’re seeing tangible signs of progress. A total of 315 residential units and 11 businesses faced damage, but the damage assessment remains ongoing.
Staying Grounded and Vigilant
County officials have been doing a sterling job of keeping residents informed and safe. With over 30,000 meals and 60,000 bottles of water already distributed, no one’s been left out in the cold. About 12,000 residents have already started their applications with FEMA. While two in-person FEMA assistance locations are set to begin operations next week for those who prefer face-to-face interactions, applications are also conveniently available online or via phone.
Cleanup Initiatives Move Forward
Diving into the aftermath, the cleanup is on everyone’s minds. The local public works departments have rolled up their sleeves, collecting over 3,500 tons of storm debris. We’re encouraged to drop off debris at the county landfill without any fees, to ease and accelerate the transportation process. Curbside collections, although progressing well, require patience as the volume is vast.
Abby Banks, the county’s public information officer, warmly reminded residents to stay informed through their social media channels. It seems all hands are on deck, and the path to recovery might be long, but it’s paved with cooperation and community spirit.
Ride Through the Recovery
While the background buzz around Hurricane Helene’s departure phases out, the focus firmly remains on recovery. The days are gradually resembling normalcy, as daily operations in various departments resume. Residents have been pillars of resilience; their support has helped shape the county’s path forward. From thanking an anonymous hero to neighbors helping each other, the genuine Greenwood spirit reverberates as storms recede.
