Death Toll Rises to 22 in South Carolina as Hurricane Helene Wreaks Havoc
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, South Carolina is grappling with wide-spread power outages and a rising death toll. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety confirmed Saturday that the storm has claimed 22 lives statewide, making it one of the deadliest to hit the Palmetto State in decades.
The number of casualties overtakes the 19 dead from the historic 2015 flooding and is close to matching the fatalities caused by Hurricane Hugo in 1989. As efforts to restore power and normalcy to the state is underway, many are dealing with the devastating damage to their homes and neighborhoods.
Power Outages Affect Hundreds of Thousands
Hurricane Helene’s powerful winds and heavy rainfall have caused significant damage across South Carolina. According to Dominion Energy, one of the state’s largest utility providers, the devastation from Helene is “unprecedented.” The company reported more than a million people were without power on Friday morning.
Many roads remain blocked due to downed trees and debris, while numerous homes have suffered extensive damage. The utility company predicts that power restoration efforts will likely extend well into next week.
Recovery Efforts in Full Swing
Local and national organizations alike are joining forces to assist in recovery efforts. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is working with private sector partners, community organizations, and non-governmental entities to provide aid to those affected. Their efforts range from meal distribution and road clearance to damage assessment.
The veteran-led disaster response team, Team Rubicon, has already sent crews to six affected counties in the state. Dominion Energy has also reassured customers that they have deployed all possible resources to facilitate the return to normalcy.
The Road to Recovery
In circumstances like these, power restoration starts with transmission lines that service the most customers and critical facilities like hospitals. The South Carolina Department of Public Health has also ensured those dependent on medical equipment and insulin will not be left without care during these power outages by making medical needs shelters available.
As clean-up and restoration efforts continue, the stark reminder of the storm’s devastation is evident in the rising death toll and extensive property damage. However, South Carolinians are displaying resilience in face of adversity yet again, aiding in recovery initiatives and helping their neighbors overcome the storm’s destructive aftermath.
