COLUMBIA, S.C. – The South Carolina Emergency Management Division is actively monitoring Tropical Storm Helene, which will soon be entering the Gulf of Mexico and could significantly impact the state in the coming days. As of Tuesday, forecasters believe Helene could bring heavy rainfall, flash flooding, gusty winds, and tornadoes to the state Thursday and Friday.
SCEMD officials are working closely with the National Weather Service and local officials to provide updated information and guidance on the storm’s potential effects.
SCEMD Director Kim Stenson emphasized the importance of early preparation: “Now is the time for South Carolinians to revisit their emergency plans and stock up on essential supplies.”
Steps to Prepare:
Build an Emergency Kit: Ensure you have enough food, water, medications, and other necessities to last at least 72 hours.
Clear Gutters and Drains: Make sure to clear your gutters and storm drains of debris to prevent water accumulation and reduce the risk of flooding around your home.
Secure Outdoor Items: Store or secure outdoor furniture, garden tools, and toys. High winds can turn these objects into dangerous projectiles.
Stay Informed: Monitor local weather forecasts and stay informed about the developments of the storm. Have several ways to get emergency information.
Visit the Clemson University Livestock-Poultry Health Emergency Preparedness, Response and Recovery page for information on preparing, responding, and recovering during emergencies as an animal owner.
SCEMD has several resources available for people to prepare for hurricanes and tropical storms, including the state’s online interactive hurricane guide at hurricane.sc.
Anyone can use the SC Emergency Manager mobile app to Know Your Zone, to build a personal emergency plan, to find emergency shelter locations and to stay connected with loved ones. The SC Emergency Manager is available in the App Store and on Google Play: http://onelink.to/dn92rx.
The official 2024 S.C. Hurricane Guide is available in English and Spanish at scemd.org.
For up-to-date resources, please visit scemd.org.
