Newberry County Declares State of Emergency as Storm Helene Hits with 140 mph Winds

Newberry County Declares State of Emergency as Helene Hits

Newberry County, S.C. – A wave of concern is sweeping through the community as the powerful storm Helene roared ashore late last night. The storm made landfall around 11:10 p.m. in the Big Bend area, bringing with it catastrophic winds that were estimated at a staggering 140 mph. As the winds howled through the region, the Newberry County Council quickly sprang into action, declaring a state of emergency for all of Newberry County.

County Urges Residents to Stay Safe

To ensure the safety of all residents, Sheriff Lee Foster and Public Safety Director Tommy Long established a curfew that runs from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. This decision wasn’t made lightly; it aims to protect those who might be vulnerable during this challenging time, including businesses and individuals, as well as the dedicated workers who are tirelessly working to restore power.

The impact of Helene’s arrival is already being felt throughout the county. Reports indicate that most of Newberry County is currently without power. With traffic lights dark and inoperative, navigating the roads has become a daunting task. Fallen trees and various hazards litter the streets, posing further risks to anyone who ventures out during the night.

Emergency Response in Action

Essential workers, including first responders and those assisting with the power restoration, are exempt from the curfew, allowing them to continue their important work. Local authorities are doing everything possible to ensure that every resident stays safe during this tumultuous time.

Officials are advising residents to remain indoors and refrain from unnecessary travel. The darkened roads, strewn with debris, could be extremely hazardous. It’s crucial for everyone to stay alert and prioritize their safety, especially in these conditions when visibility is low.

Power Restoration Efforts Underway

As the storm continues to wreak havoc, the immediate focus is on restoring power to the affected areas. Local power companies have mobilized crews to assess and address the damages as quickly as possible. However, with the uncaring force of nature and damaged infrastructure, it may take time before services are fully restored.

Community Comes Together

In situations like this, the resilience of the Newberry County community truly shines. Neighbors are checking in on one another, offering help where needed, and sharing resources whenever possible. It’s a heartwarming sight to see how, even in the face of adversity, the spirit of togetherness remains strong. Everyone is encouraged to lend a helping hand to their neighbors, be it making phone calls or sharing supplies.

Looking Forward

As the winds calm and the storm begins to move away, authorities urge residents to keep updated on developments. Preparations for the after-effects will be essential, and local officials will continue to provide updates as conditions evolve.

In the meantime, it’s essential to stay informed and ready for what lies ahead. The community is encouraged to remain patient as the emergency services work tirelessly to restore normalcy. Remember, a bit of kindness goes a long way in these difficult times, so reach out to neighbors, lend support, and look out for one another!

Stay Safe, Newberry County!

Stay tuned for more updates, and remember to keep safety as your top priority. Together, we can weather this storm and emerge even stronger!