Beaufort County Rallies Together Post-Hurricane Helene
As Beaufort County begins its recovery process after the recent impact of Hurricane Helene, community members are stepping up to show their resilience and support for one another. The storm has caused significant disruptions, and local officials are working around the clock to bring life back to normal while also ensuring that the needs of their community are met.
Community Engagement and Gratitude
Beaufort County Administrator Michael Moore extended a heartfelt thank you to residents for their strength and compassion during and after the storm. “I’ve seen neighbors helping each other in clearing debris, sharing resources, and assisting those without power,” he expressed. It’s heartwarming to see such community spirit flourishing when it’s needed the most! The appreciation doesn’t stop there; a special shout-out goes to the emergency responders and utility workers who have dedicated long hours to restore power and safety across the county.
Damage Reporting Systems in Place
For those who may have suffered structural damage, the Beaufort County Assessor’s Office has set up a user-friendly web form that property owners can fill out to self-report any damage caused by Hurricane Helene. Whether you own a residential or commercial property, this is an essential step in helping the county assess the total impact of the storm accurately. If you’re unable to access the online form, don’t hesitate to call 843-255-2400 where staff members are ready to assist you.
Restoration Efforts Underway
In collaboration with Dominion Energy, Beaufort County is tackling power restoration, particularly on Daufuskie Island. Officials are working on equipment staging and improving dock access, but it’s important to note that restoration is projected to take several days. To assist residents facing water shortages, a distribution center was established at the First Union African Baptist Church, operating three times a day to ensure everyone has access to clean water.
Extra Support for Ferry Riders
Starting October 2 until Sunday, October 6, Beaufort County is showing extra support for residential ferry riders by allowing an additional 100 pounds of luggage and supplies. This brings the total weight allowance to 200 pounds per trip! It’s a small yet significant way to help residents stock up on essential supplies during this challenging time. If you’re planning a trip and need to carry more than usual, just let the Lowcountry Ferry know while booking your ticket.
Debris Cleanup Initiatives
Recovering from a storm also means tackling the mess left behind. Beaufort County aims to assist Daufuskie Island residents by picking up storm-generated vegetative debris in front of homes. The area at Francis Jones Park has been designated as a collection site for residents on non-county roads. Meanwhile, local convenience centers remain open to cater to storm debris disposal—residents can drop off vegetative debris during regular hours, making it easier to clean up our beautiful community.
Community Assistance Resources
For those seeking help, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division has established a toll-free hotline available 24/7 to assist residents affected by the hurricane. You can reach the Hurricane Helene Hotline at 866-246-0133. Additionally, if you need information about local non-emergency assistance, the United Way of the Lowcountry has an active 2-1-1 HELP LINE, and calling or texting this number can put you in touch with local resources.
Stay Connected and Prepared
Finally, staying informed is crucial. By signing up for updates from Beaufort County Government or downloading the Everbridge app, residents can receive timely news and alerts. And remember, the hurricane season extends through November 30! It’s essential to be prepared, stay aware, and support one another, which is exactly what the people of Beaufort County are doing in the days following Hurricane Helene.
