Gov. McMaster declares state of emergency for South Carolina as Hurricane Helene approaches

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) – On Wednesday, Governor McMaster declared a state of emergency in preparation for the landing of Hurricane Helene.

The governor’s order activates the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan. This declaration directs the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) to coordinate with state agencies to prepare for assistance requests from local officials and county emergency management leaders.

“Although South Carolina will likely avoid the brunt of Hurricane Helene’s impacts, the storm is still expected to bring dangerous flooding, high winds, and isolated tornadoes to many parts of the state,” said Governor McMaster.

“This State of Emergency ensures that Team South Carolina has the necessary resources in place to respond to these potential impacts. South Carolinians in potentially affected areas should start to take precautions now and monitor local weather forecasts over the next several days.”

Hurricane Helene formed Tuesday and is rapidly strengthening in the Gulf of Mexico. Before making landfall in the Big Bend of Florida Thursday evening, Helene is likely to be a Major Hurricane, with sustained winds around 125 MPH.

The storm is expected to impact South Carolina and other southeastern states with strong winds, significant rainfall, flash flooding, and an enhanced risk of isolated tornadoes.

Watch WIS Thursday and Friday for First Alert Weather coverage as the hurricane makes its way through the Midlands.

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