COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster said Thursday progress continues to be made following Tropical Storm Helene but that more work lies ahead for the state in the coming days and months.
McMaster spoke from the state's emergency operations center in West Columbia, nearly a week after the storm ravaged the state.
Helene has led to 41 storm-related deaths in the state so far, according to data released by the South Carolina Department of Public Safety Thursday. The number of deaths in all states from the storm has now exceeds 200.
South Carolina Emergency Management Director Kim Stenson said Thursday that so far, 23 counties are reporting over 3,500 homes damaged with 196 of those destroyed and another 1,100 with major damage.
Power outages have continued to drop in South Carolina but they still stand at bout 367,000 statewide Thursday afternoon, down from nearly 1.4 million at the peak of the storm last Friday.
"We're making great progress," McMaster said. "We have a long way to go and it's going to take a while to get all the debris off the sides of the road. You don't have it all out of the roads yet."
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division has created the Hurricane Helene information line at the following number: 1-866-246-0133. People who have questions about the storm can call operators with the State's Public Information Phone System 24 hours a day. The number will be available for as long as needed.
State officials said people can ask questions about the state's response or any safety precautions they should take.
SCEMD is also giving the following tips:
- Watch Out for Power Lines: Avoid any fallen trees that may be tangled with live wires.
- Stay Out of Flood Water: It may contain hazards that can hurt you or make you sick.
- Avoid Unnecessary Travel: Help emergency workers by staying off the roadways unless absolutely necessary to travel.
- Take Pictures/Document Damage: Before starting cleanup, take pictures of any damage for insurance claims. Contact insurance company. Save all related receipts.
- Protective Gear: Wear sturdy shoes, gloves, eyewear, and a helmet when dealing with debris.
- Consult Waste Management: Contact local authorities about how to properly dispose of trash and debris.
- Residents can request voluntary agency assistance with debris removal, tarping of roof, etc., by registering their need with Crisis Cleanup. Call 1-844-965-1386.
- Discard Unrecoverable Items: Remove items that cannot be cleaned or disinfected properly.
- Use Proper Cleaning Supplies: Most household cleaning products can be used. Follow the label’s directions.
- Licensed Contractors: For professional assistance, use the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing, and Regulation to find licensed contractors at llr.sc.gov.