South Carolina Braces for Impact as Tropical Storm Helene Approaches with Severe Weather Threats

South Carolina Braces for Potentially Severe Weather from Tropical Storm Helene

Greenwood, SC – September 26, 2024

The Palmetto State is on high alert as Tropical Storm Helene makes its approach. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has forecasted a significant impact, with the potential for heavy rainfall, high winds, and isolated tornadoes in several parts of South Carolina.

On Tuesday, a satellite image taken at 6:10 PM ET showed Tropical Storm Helene off the Gulf Coast of Florida, positioned near Mexico and Cuba. Although South Carolina is not in the direct path, the state is still expected to experience severe weather conditions. In preparation, Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency.

“Although South Carolina will likely avoid the brunt of Hurricane Helene’s impacts, the storm is still expected to bring dangerous flooding, high winds, and isolated tornadoes to many parts of the state,” said McMaster. “This state of emergency ensures that Team South Carolina has the necessary resources in place to respond to these potential impacts. South Carolinians in potentially affected areas should start to take precautions now and monitor local weather forecasts over the next several days.”

Impact on Greenwood and Abbeville Counties

Residents in Greenwood and Abbeville counties should brace themselves for significant weather disruptions. According to Meteorologist Doug Outlaw from the National Weather Service, Greenwood County might see close to 5 1/2 inches of rainfall, while Abbeville County could experience between 6 and 6 1/2 inches. Wind speeds are projected to be between 25 and 30 mph, with gusts potentially reaching up to 50 mph by Friday morning.

“With a combination of saturated ground and those wind speeds, it is quite possible that trees are going to fall over. Some of them are going to carry with them power lines, so there’s going to be power outages. This is going to be quite an event with the rain and the wind,” said Outlaw.

School Closures and Precautions

In response to the looming storm, several school districts, including Greenwood School Districts 50, 51, and 52, Abbeville County School District, and McCormick School District, have declared e-Learning days for Friday. All after-school activities scheduled for Thursday have been canceled.

Emergency management coordinators in both counties are urging residents to prepare for power outages by keeping cellphones charged, securing backup generators, and ensuring access to flashlights and non-perishable food items.

Public Warnings and Guidance

Local emergency management officials emphasize the importance of staying informed and safe during the storm. Greenwood County Emergency Management Coordinator, Robert Cribbin, advises residents to develop and discuss an emergency plan with their families and check on elderly neighbors.

Will Blackwell from Abbeville County Emergency Management highlighted the need for preparedness: “Citizens need to prepare for prolonged power outages. Make sure you are prepared with nonperishable foods, food that can be prepared without power, plenty of drinking water and medications. Take the appropriate measures to secure items in your yard that may be blown around and make sure outside pets that can not be brought inside are safe. If you must travel during the storm, do not drive through standing water and be vigilant for fallen trees and hazards.”

Public Works and utility services like Duke Energy are also on high alert. Jeff Meredith of Greenwood Public Works mentioned their readiness to handle outages. Ryan Mosier from Duke Energy shared storm tips, emphasizing the importance of an emergency supply kit, staying informed through weather updates, and safe generator usage.

After the Storm

Post-storm safety is equally crucial. Residents are urged to stay tuned to local news for updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency officials. Avoid floodwaters, stay away from downed power lines, and follow safety protocols if operating a generator.