Emily Garbutt
Updated on: October 15, 2024 8:22 am GMT
As Hurricane Helene swept through the South on Friday morning, the storm has been linked to at least 22 deaths in South Carolina alone, highlighting the storm’s destructive power. Communities in several counties are grappling with the aftermath of extensive damage, fallen trees, and flooded roads.
Impact of Hurricane Helene
The storm caused significant destruction across multiple counties. Here are some key details:
- Anderson County reported two fatalities from trees crashing down on homes.
- In Spartanburg County, five lives were lost, including a woman identified as Anna Maria Smith who was killed when a tree fell on her house.
- Greenwood County confirmed one death due to the storm.
- Greenville County recorded four deaths with more information pending.
- In Laurens County, three people died, two of them after a tree fell on their car.
Details on the Victims
Among the confirmed victims are:
- Christine Schmeiske, 55, from Anderson County, struck by a fallen tree.
- Sandy Lee Fisher, 54, also from Anderson County, was similarly affected.
- In Spartanburg County, several victims from Landrum lost their lives due to falling trees or flooding.
Tragedy Strikes First Responders
The storm’s impact extended even to first responders. On the fateful day of the hurricane, two volunteer firefighters from Saluda County lost their lives while responding to emergencies. Their identities have not yet been disclosed, but their deaths are a reminder of the risks faced by those who serve the community during crises.
Governor Henry McMaster confirmed the deaths, noting that they are part of the four total fatalities attributed to vehicle-related incidents connected to the storm. “These brave men were serving their community when tragedy struck,” he said during a press conference.
Community Response and Safety Measures
As the storm left its mark, local authorities urged residents to prioritize safety. The Saluda County Sheriff’s Office posted on social media, urging people to stay indoors due to numerous downed trees and power lines. Their message emphasized the importance of using emergency services only when necessary.
Despite the challenges, emergency responders worked tirelessly to assist those in need. The county’s EMS service had to pause temporarily due to dangerous conditions on the roads, a reminder of the storm’s widespread disruption.
Status of Power Outages
In addition to the tragic loss of life, nearly 555,000 customers in the Upstate and parts of western North Carolina woke up to power outages following the storm. Utility companies are working to restore power, but many are still grappling with the effects of downed trees and damaged infrastructure.
Conclusion
The devastation wrought by Hurricane Helene serves as a sobering testament to the power of nature. The loss of lives, including first responders, underscores the challenges faced by communities during such extreme weather events. As recovery efforts begin, residents are encouraged to remain alert and take precautions as utilities and services work to restore normalcy. The community’s resilience will undoubtedly shine through as they come together to support one another in the recovery process.
Stay tuned for more information about Hurricane Helene’s effects.
