As Helene approaches Florida, it’s expected to be a frenetic rest of the week while all eyes focus on Helene and it’s imminent landfall. The National Hurricane Center has Florida’s Big Bend in the cross hairs of Helene’s worst winds.
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division is actively monitoring Tropical Storm Helene, as it enters the Gulf of Mexico and its potential to impact South Carolina in the coming days. As of Tuesday, forecasters believe Helene could bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, gusty winds, and tornadoes to South Carolina Thursday and Friday.
SCEMD officials are working closely with the National Weather Service and local officials to provide updated information and guidance on the storm’s potential effects. South Carolina Emergency Officials emphasized the importance of early preparation: “Now is the time for South Carolinians to revisit their emergency plans and stock up on essential supplies.”
Leslie Chapman Henderson, the CEO of FLASH (Federal Alliance for Safe Homes) has some great advice for ]South Carolinians in the coming days.
Here are some more good reminders for you as you prepare for potential impacts, especially the flooding and flash flooding risk to the Upstate and Midlands.
1. Build an Emergency Kit: Ensure you have enough food, water, medications, and other necessities to last at least 72 hours. To make sure your hurricane kit is stocked and ready to go with essentials, check out our article and video here:
2. Clear Gutters and Drains: Make sure to clear your gutters and storm drains of debris to preventwater accumulation and reduce the risk of flooding around your home.
3. Secure Outdoor Items: Store or secure outdoor furniture, garden tools, and toys. High winds can turn these objects into dangerous projectiles.
4. Stay Informed: Monitor local weather forecasts and stay informed about the developments of the storm. Have several ways to get emergency information.
5. Visit the Clemson University Livestock-Poultry Health Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery page for information on preparing, responding, and recovering during emergencies as an animal owner.
SCEMD has several resources available for people to prepare for hurricanes and tropical storms,including the state’s online interactive hurricane guide at hurricane.sc.
Anyone can use the SC Emergency Manager mobile app to Know Your Zone, to build a personal emergency plan, to find emergency shelter locations and to stay connected with loved ones. The SC Emergency Manager is available in the App Store and on Google Play: http://onelink.to/dn92rx.
The official 2024 S.C. Hurricane Guide is available in English and Spanish at scemd.org.