Cleanup Efforts Advance in Upstate South Carolina After Tropical Storm Helene

Cleanup Efforts Continue in Upstate Following Tropical Storm Helene

It has been over a month and a half since the tumultuous tropical storm Helene swept through the Upstate, leaving a trail of debris and disruption in its wake. As communities begin to piece together their lives, the cleanup efforts are slowly but surely moving forward. It’s a collective effort, and both Greenville and Spartanburg Counties are working around the clock to restore order.

Taking Out the Trash – Literally!

Starting with Greenville County, spokesperson Bob Mihalic shared some impressive numbers. Have you heard? The county’s dedicated debris contractor has collected over 330,000 cubic yards of debris! That’s roughly the size of 60 football fields, folks! On the other side of the region, Spartanburg County is not lagging behind, having hauled away more than 250,000 cubic yards of debris, as reported by spokesperson Scottie Kay Blackwell.

To put it into perspective, Spartanburg County is averaging about 10,000 cubic yards per day in debris pickup, while Greenville has managed to collect an average of 7,000 yards daily. Talk about teamwork!

What’s Next for These Counties?

Both counties are prepared for the long haul, expecting to pick up well over a million cubic yards of debris by the time cleanup is complete. Greenville County is ramping it up with double trailer trucks, and they’ve committed to collecting debris seven days a week until at least January.

For the month of November, inspection and cleanup efforts in Greenville will focus on three specific areas to ensure they can help residents get back on their feet. But wait, there’s more! For those who prefer to drop off debris themselves, the county has designated two convenient locations: Blackberry Valley at 409 Blackberry Road and Enoree at 311 Anderson Ridge Road.

Spartanburg County’s Ongoing Efforts

On the Spartanburg front, Blackwell shared that debris pickup will continue into 2025, although a specific end date is still under wraps. Crews are actively working seven days a week without additional focus areas, ensuring that no corner is left untouched.

FEMA’s Extended Support

Freetown Community Center on 200 Alice Avenue, operating from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Help will be available until January 7.

Over in Spartanburg County, relief efforts are ongoing at the Spartanburg Emergency Management Services building located at 175 Community College Drive. Their operations will continue until December 6 and are open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday to Saturday.

A Community United

It’s heartwarming to see the dedication and resilience of these communities as they tackle the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene together. With continued support from county officials and FEMA, there is a glimmer of hope on the horizon. Although challenges remain, the cleanup efforts shine a light on the powerful spirit of community and neighborly support.

Let’s keep cheering on these local heroes who are doing everything they can to ensure the Upstate bounces back stronger than ever!