YORK COUNTY, S.C. — South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster requested federal assistance with storm cleanup in Rock Hill after severe weather caused widespread damage last month.
A line of severe thunderstorms produced damaging winds and large hail on April 20, destroying 16 homes and damaging a dozen more. McMaster's request is for a Presidential Disaster Declaration, which provides financial assistance for homeowners affected by the storm.
"I have determined that the situation and survivor recovery needs in York County are of such severity that an effective response is beyond the capabilities of the state and the affected local governments," McMaster said in a press release. "Indeed, the impacts of the April 20 storm have resulted in threats to the safety, security, and welfare of residents of York County, particularly the most vulnerable residents in the storm’s path."
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The National Weather Service determined the damage was caused by damaging winds and hail, not a tornado. The supercell produced winds up to 90 mph and 2-inch hail.
One family along Crawford Road in Rock Hill is still working to survey damages after multiple trees landed on two of their sheds causing havoc for them.
“All of my husband’s tools, generators, I can’t even put a price on it, it’s just gone," homeowner Angie Johnson explained while surveying the damages for the first time. “We’re lost, we’re forgotten, no one cares. It just hurts me to my core, but I give it to God. I know he’s going to handle everything and everything’s going to be alright. But in the meantime, we’re over here. We’re just waiting.
Johnson added that "FEMA, the government, or someone" needs to step help and help those still suffering in that community.
On Jones Avenue, the Redeeming Life Christian Center also suffered major damage. The church is the site of the first school to integrate in South Carolina. While, on Monday, the historic building seemed to be okay, the storm toppled trees and damaged buildings elsewhere on the center's campus
A large tree destroyed two trailers, formerly used as portable classrooms and a youth center. The trailers were being used as storage when they were destroyed.
"I really wanted to cry, but then I recognized, you know, everything happens for a reason," Bishop Eric Gailliard said. "Even though we may not like it, you’ve got to find a way to maintain your joy in the midst of the storm. Find a way to maintain your joy. Keep your peace. Keep your joy. So, now we have to clean up, but guess what? Something new is going to happen.”
Rock Hill City Councilman Perry Sutton said he doesn't believe any funding will come.
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