Bluffton Faces Aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene
Bluffton is still reeling from the effects of Tropical Storm Helene, which made its presence felt across the region on September 26 and into the early hours of September 27. The storm brought with it strong winds and heavy rains that left a trail of damage in its wake, and local residents are now left to pick up the pieces.
Power Outages and Water Supply Challenges
As of this morning, the situation is quite serious. Many residents are awakening to yet another day without power. Reports indicate that over 55,000 residents in Beaufort County are still in the dark, which is not a small number considering the county’s sizable population. The utility companies, including Dominion Energy and the Palmetto Electric Cooperative, are working diligently to restore service, navigating through the debris caused by downed trees and blocked roads.
To add to the struggles, the Beaufort-Jasper Water and Sewer Authority is urging residents to limit their water use to essential needs only. Spokesperson Jeff La Rue explained that two-thirds of the authority’s pump stations are currently without power, although they are managing to operate some generators for water supply. “It’s the worst damage our system has seen since Hurricane Matthew back in 2016,” La Rue shared, hinting at the significant impact this storm has had.
Community Response and School Closures
In light of the storm’s impact, the Beaufort County School District made the decision to hold an e-learning day and canceled all after-school events. Parents received alerts early on, encouraging them to adapt their plans for the day. This decision underscores the ongoing challenges that families face in the wake of Helene.
Emergency services have also reported delays due to the widespread road blockages. Residents are being urged to remain patient, especially those who may need assistance through 911 calls. Spokesperson Virginia Marshall reassured the public that help will come, but it’s crucial for them to stay safe and avoid unnecessary travel.
Damage Assessment and Cleanup Efforts
As crews continue to assess the damage, one of the hardest-hit areas appears to be the popular Henry Robinson Boardwalk in Port Royal. A significant portion of this beloved walkway was washed away during the storm, with parts of its decking now adorning the tidal marsh along Sands Beach. Residents are visibly distressed as this landmark is not just a structure but a cherished location for families and tourists alike.
The May River wasn’t spared either, as a dock now leans precariously, further evidence of the storm’s intensity. Local officials are now working on measures to repair the damage, and assessments are ongoing to determine the full extent of the destruction left by Helene.
Travel and Transportation Updates
On the transportation front, travel disruptions have been minimal at Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport, according to spokesperson Lori Lynah. While a few flights faced delays or cancellations due to the storm’s influence, overall, the airport is operating as normal as can be expected given the circumstances. The Daufuskie Island ferry resumed service after a temporary closure due to rough seas, which serves as good news for those wanting to travel back and forth to the island.
A Message of Resilience
The community’s spirit remains unbroken despite the chaos left behind by Tropical Storm Helene. There is a strong sense of camaraderie as residents come together to help each other out during this difficult time. Mayor Alan Perry reminded residents to exercise caution and stay off the roads as much as possible due to the numerous downed trees still blocking paths.
As the cleanup begins and the focus shifts to recovery, the town of Bluffton stands resilient, poised to rebuild and restore what was lost. For now, it’s crucial to remain safe, heed local officials’ advice, and lend a helping hand to neighbors in need.
