Hurricane Helene Causes Disruptions in Greenville County
Greenville, SC – Residents of Greenville County faced a rough start to the week as the impact of Hurricane Helene led to widespread power outages and canceled classes. Many households woke up without electricity, prompting the local energy providers to prepare for an increase in calls from affected residents.
Power Outages and Emergency Contacts
As the storm passed, local energy companies advised customers to keep their emergency contact numbers handy. For those affected, the numbers are: Duke Energy at 800-769-3766, Blue Ridge Electric Co-op at 888-258-3743, Laurens Electric Co-op at 866-973-7867, and Greer CPW at 864-848-5500. Many residents will need to prepare for a wait to have their services restored.
Emergency Shelters Opened
The American Red Cross has set up a shelter at Crosswell Baptist Church located at 219 S. Fishtrap Road. This shelter is specifically for residents along the Saluda River who may need assistance due to the risk of flooding. According to the National Weather Service, the water levels in the Saluda River might exceed those seen during a notable storm in February 2020.
School Closures and Changes
Greenville County Schools announced the cancellation of classes for both Monday and Tuesday. With many students facing power outages and issues with internet connectivity, the district could not support eLearning. Officials plan to provide updates regarding school operations later in the week as conditions improve.
Additionally, several local school districts, including Greenwood School District 50, Greenwood School District 52, and Lurens County School District 55, have also canceled classes and activities for Friday, September 27, while planning remote instruction for that day.
Community Events Affected
Local events were impacted as well, with Autumnfest hours altered. The event now operates from noon to 6 p.m. on September 27, and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on September 29. Meanwhile, Cleveland Park Animal Hospital will remain closed until further notice, as staff assess damages and safety protocols.
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left a mark on Greenville County, but the community is coming together to support each other during these challenging times. Residents are advised to stay informed through local news and to utilize the available resources for their safety and recovery.
