Midlands Prepare for Impact as Hurricane Helene Approaches
Columbia, SC – In a whirlwind of winds and rain, Hurricane Helene has made its presence known and is set to push through the Midlands. With the storm rapidly gaining strength, locals are bracing themselves for heavy showers and strong gusts that are likely to hit South Carolina hard. The situation remains fluid, and everyone is being urged to stay updated as new information comes in.
Rivers on the Rise
As the remnants of Helene continue to sweep through, Columbia residents are paying close attention to rising water levels. The Congaree River is a particular concern as it swells with the rainwater cascading from the storm. Today, Columbia’s rivers are being closely monitored as officials assess what’s happening and prepare for potential flooding.
On Monday afternoon, it was reported that the Congaree had crested at approximately 30.5 feet, still shy of the catastrophic 32 feet reached during the infamous flood back in 2015. Yet, the ramifications are real, and some neighborhoods, particularly those close to the water, are already experiencing the impacts.
Keeping the Community Safe
In the nearby city of Cayce, officials are actively responding to flooding in the Riverland Park area and have advised residents to steer clear of the region. On social media, the city urged everyone not to venture into flooded zones, emphasizing that the police and fire department were doing everything possible to ensure community safety.
Cayce city representatives are keeping the public informed, noting that its water and sewer services are operating normally despite the flooding. They stated, “Cayce Water and Wastewater Treatment Plants are self-contained and not at risk due to the rising river levels.” So, if you’re in the area, worry not! The generous supplies of drinking water remain safe for everyone.
Residents are still recovering from the storm’s aftermath, which tragically claimed at least 27 lives in South Carolina and left many without power. Authorities are asking for patience as energy crews work diligently to restore power to approximately 8,000 affected households.
The Community Rallies Together
In the spirit of unity, locals are coming together to support each other during this difficult time. City crews are working hard to remove downed trees, clear blocked streets, and ensure emergency services can respond promptly to those in need. As of late Monday, officials noted that 20 roads in Columbia are closed due to fallen trees, while residents are looking for ways to safely dispose of storm debris.
Cayce city crews are also opting for a proactive approach. They’ve already performed a voluntary evacuation for residents in low-lying areas as the Congaree River showed signs of rising dangerously. As part of their commitment to safety, police went door-to-door to ensure community members understood the dangers and what assistance was available.
Federal Assistance on Its Way
In light of the devastation, President Joe Biden has declared a disaster for South Carolina, paving the way for federal assistance for communities affected by Helene. State officials recognized that help is needed on the ground, and programs are coming into effect to aid those requiring temporary housing, home repairs, and support for businesses.
Stay Informed and Stay Safe
As the Cape continues its preparations, residents are reminded to stay informed about the storm’s progression and any updates from local authorities. It’s a challenging time in the Midlands, but community resilience shines through. Locals are encouraged to keep in touch with neighbors and help each other out as we weather this storm together.
For now, let’s remain vigilant, lend a helping hand where we can, and keep our spirits high. The coming days will be crucial, and the safety of our community is everyone’s responsibility.
