ORANGEBURG COUNTY, S.C. — Crews are once again out in Orangeburg, this time focusing on homes damaged by recent flooding. They are conducting damage assessments in the hopes of securing federal assistance for those affected by the high waters.
Preston McClun, the Planning and Zoning director for Orangeburg County, explained that following a substantial flood, the county is required to assess any structures in Special Flood Hazard Areas. The information gathered will help determine the level of damage and whether the county qualifies for federal aid.
“We’re going around and evaluating the properties, seeing exactly where the flood line was and how it impacted their houses both outside and inside,” said McClun. “We just want people to know that the county will be coming around doing damage assessments if they are in that flood hazard area.”
The county is working to reach a financial threshold necessary to qualify for federal aid. In order for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to intervene, the state must report at least $9.6 million in damage, and Orangeburg County must meet a minimum of $388,000 in damage.
In addition to Orangeburg County, crews from Lexington County and the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) are assisting with the 520 damage assessments that need to be completed. The damage assessments are crucial for helping FEMA determine whether the county is eligible for federal assistance.
McClun emphasized that FEMA’s flood insurance policy requires the county to adhere to certain guidelines aimed at reducing flood risks. He said homeowners in flood-prone areas may face requirements to upgrade their properties in line with current flood prevention ordinances. Some homes may still be grandfathered in under older rules, depending on the extent of the damage.
“We’re looking to see how much damage has occurred to determine if the properties need to be upgraded to meet current ordinances, or if they can remain under older regulations,” said McClun.
Billy Staley, with the Orangeburg County Office of Emergency Services, confirmed that the county plans to submit the damage numbers to the state by the end of next week. Once submitted, the state and FEMA will evaluate the data and decide if and how much Orangeburg County qualifies for with federal aid.
“We take those numbers once we get them and push that information up to the state and FEMA,” Staley said. “They’ll evaluate the need in Orangeburg County and determine whether or not we’re eligible for FEMA assistance for individuals and the county.”
Residents who wish to report residential damages can do so online, right here.