Live Updates: Hurricane Helene Aftermath and Recovery in Upstate South Carolina
Upstate South Carolina is on the road to recovery as the death toll from Hurricane Helene reaches 36 residents and cleanup operations continue. Residents are coping with the widespread electrical outage, road obstructions, and damage to public facilities.
Biden Calls to ‘Jump-Start’ Recovery
President Joe Biden, in a recent address from the White House Roosevelt Room, highlighted the urgent need for reconstruction support for the South Carolina communities ravaged by Hurricane Helene. He expressed his commitment to swift community assistance and predicted that the recovery’s cost would enter the billion-dollar range. President Biden is scheduled to visit South Carolina and neighboring North Carolina on Wednesday for an aerial survey of the destruction caused by the hurricane.
Emergency Call Center Operational in Spartanburg
In Spartanburg County, the Emergency Management Call Center is open around the clock. For those facing imminent emergencies, dial 911. For help concerning other storm-related issues, any resident can call 864-860-1644.
Hurricane Helene Cleanup and Restoration in Greenville and Spartanburg
In Greenville City, cleanup is ongoing with 19 teams working to clear debris and unblock roads, 181 out of 207 traffic signals back in operation, and internet systems gradually returning to functionality. The city is utilizing drone technology for post-Helene assessment – a development expected to conclude by this week’s end.
In Spartanburg County, cleanup is underway with help from outside resources, including the South Carolina National Guard and workers from as far as Canada.
Staying up to Date with Utility and Resource Outages
As residents recover, local power, mobile, and internet providers in the Upstate region pledge to frequently relay status reports. Similarly, an updated list of groceries and operating restaurants is available for those waiting for power resumption to ensure essential supplies are readily accessible.
Burn Ban Issued After Hurricane Helene
Effective October 1, the SC Forestry Commission directed 20 counties, including Anderson, to cease all out of doors burning in unincorporated areas. The ban concerns remaining wood or debris from the storm and aims to free up much-needed emergency personnel and resources.
Applications Open for Emergency Relief
Several options are available for residents in South Carolina requiring emergency relief. Application facilities are now available, and residents can apply online or by calling their respective relief agencies.
Conclusion
Hurricane Helene has undeniably left a trail of destruction in its wake, but efforts towards recovery are in full swing. With the collaborative efforts of residents, local and state officials, and emergency workers, the Upstate region is gradually navigating its way out of the storm’s aftermath.
