Hurricane Helene Leaves Newberry County in Disarray

News Summary

Newberry County is reeling from the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, marking one of the worst storms in the area’s history. With two fatalities reported and many others injured, officials are working tirelessly to restore power and provide relief. The community faces significant challenges due to widespread damage, power outages affecting 38,000 residents, and a curfew in place to ensure safety amid falling trees and flooded streets. Despite the chaos, local efforts are underway to aid those in need and uphold the spirit of resilience in the face of adversity.

Hurricane Helene Leaves Newberry County in Disarray

The small town of Newberry County is grappling with the aftereffects of Hurricane Helene, which has brought devastation and despair to its residents. The storm has been described as the worst in the history of Newberry County, resulting in the tragic loss of two lives and a wave of destruction throughout the area.

Fatalities and Injuries

As the storm raged on, two individuals tragically lost their lives in a crash linked to the hurricane. The victims, a married couple from Chapin, have been confirmed to have died at the scene of the accident in the Little Mountain area early Friday morning. In addition to these fatalities, reports indicate that at least four others sustained injuries, with local officials alerting the public that the number of injuries may be higher as some individuals have yet to report their conditions.

Power Outages and Shelter

With approximately 38,000 residents affected, the power outages have left many without essential services. Grocery stores are struggling with inventory shortages due to lost refrigeration, leading to many perishable items being tossed out. To assist those in need, a shelter has been established at Gallman Elementary School, providing refuge for families displaced by the storm.

Communication Challenges

Adding to the complications, many phone lines are down because of an AT&T outage, making it difficult for residents to communicate with the authorities. The sheriff’s office requests that residents only use 911 for emergencies to ensure that lines remain clear for those in desperate need of help.

Concerns Over Infrastructure

The Newberry County sheriff has expressed concerns regarding further potential infrastructure failures, specifically citing the dam at Lake Lure. Authorities have raised alarms over its possible failure, which could pose serious risks to the Broad River Basin. Given the geography of the area, which is primarily characterized by rolling hills, flooding risks are mitigated, yet low-lying regions, especially in the city where creeks run, still face significant danger.

Community Response and Safety Measures

Widespread damage has created challenges across Newberry County, with reports of street flooding and hazards from fallen trees and power lines becoming a daily issue. To protect both residents and businesses during this chaotic time, a curfew has been imposed from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m., creating a safer environment for utility workers as they work tirelessly to restore power.

Resilience in Adversity

Despite the challenges posed by this disaster, the community is rallying together. High school students have stepped up to gather supplies for Cedar Key School, which suffered its own damages due to the storm. These students are prioritizing their efforts to assist others over homecoming festivities, showcasing the spirit and determination of Newberry County’s youth.

Distribution of Aid

Community leaders are rapidly setting up food and water distribution sites to support those still living without power. This initiative aims to alleviate some of the pains residents are feeling during this tough time. Sheriff Foster has emphasized the importance of kindness and support within the community, encouraging people to help their neighbors and extend goodwill amidst the ongoing disaster.

A Statewide Tragedy

Tragically, the storm’s impact has not been limited to Newberry County alone. Reports from across South Carolina indicate that the death toll has risen, surpassing that of the infamous Hurricane Hugo, with at least three fatalities confirmed statewide. As residents of Newberry County face the recovery process, the sense of community and resilience remains a beacon of hope for all.