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As South Carolina and North Carolina continue to recover from the massive impacts of Helene, the following list will be updated as information comes in. **Live coverage when available above**Tuesday updates:11:50 a.m.: McDowell County, NC information: Numerous agencies from all across McDowell County continue to assist McDowell County Emergency Management with Points of Distribution. These PODs will operate daily from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, depending on available supplies. The locations are as follows: Woodlawn: Hicks Chapel Church, 6008 US 221 N, Marion, NC Former TJs Discount, 8153 US 221 N, Marion, NC 28752 Old Fort: Old Fort Town Hall, 38 Catawba Avenue, Old Fort, NC 28762 Marion: New Manna Baptist Church, 225 East Court St., Marion, NC 28752 Dysartsville: Solid Rock Free Will Baptist Church, 7860 NC 226 S, Nebo, NC 28761Meals Provided by Grace Community ChurchStarting Tuesday, October 1, 2024, Grace Community Church will be providing hot meals at their location (5182 US 70 West, Marion, NC 28752). The meal times are as follows: Lunch: 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM Dinner: 4:00 PM to 5:30 PMAvailable SheltersThe following shelters are open or will be opening in McDowell County to provide refuge for those in need: Glenwood Baptist Church, 155 Glenwood Church Rd, Marion, NC 28752 Senior Center in Marion, 100 Spaulding Rd, Marion, NC 28752 YMCA of Marion, 348 Grace Corpening Dr, Marion, NC 28752Helene Hotline – McDowell CountyIf you or someone you know is in need of assistance, please call the Helene Hotline at (828) 652-3241. Our 24/7 volunteer operators are standing by to help. The hotline can be used for the following:1. Report missing or stranded persons2. Request transportation to a shelter3. Report urgent medical equipment needs (oxygen, life-saving medication)4. Any other questions or concerns11:40 a.m.: T-Mobile teams will be in North Carolina and South Carolina offering charging and Wi-Fi connectivity at the following locations, during their open hours. Please check back for updates as additional locations may be added or changes made based on evolving needs. Heres the information:North Carolina Western North Carolina (WNC) Agricultural Center at 1301 Fanning Bridge Road, Fletcher, NC 28732 Asheville Middle School at 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801 Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center at 285 Livingston St. Asheville, NC 28801 A-B Tech Community College at 340 Victoria Rd., Asheville, NC 28801South Carolina Greenwood County at 528 Monument St., Greenwood, SC 2964611:15 a.m. Latest on SNAP benefits: The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) is requesting a waiver from U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that if approved will allow DSS to automatically issue federally funded food replacement benefits to current SNAP recipients residing in counties where 50% or more of the total population in that county experienced a power outage lasting more than four (4) hours per federal guidelines. If the waiver is approved, the amount of replacement benefits each SNAP household will receive is based on their monthly issuance date.Once more information is available, it will be released by DSS via official messages. SNAP recipients are encouraged to seek verified information from trusted sources, such as directly from DSS, and not rumors or misinformation spread on social media networks.10:20 a.m. We are getting updates on schools and power outages. Check in links below: 10:15 a.m. Following Sen. Ossoff and Georgias entire Congressional Delegations request, President Biden declared that a major disaster exists in the State of Georgia and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts.As of this morning, the Presidents action makes Federal funding available to affected individuals in Appling, Brooks, Coffee, Columbia, Jefferson, Liberty, Lowndes, Pierce, Richmond, Tattnall, and Toombs Counties.Per the White House and the State of Georgia, damage assessments are continuing in other areas of the state, and after the assessments are fully completed by GEMA and FEMA, more counties and additional forms of assistance may be designated. Assistance can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs, low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses, and other programs to help individuals and business owners recover from the effects of the disaster. Federal funding also is available to State and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations on a cost-sharing basis for emergency work in the counties of Appling, Brooks, Coffee, Columbia, Jefferson, Liberty, Lowndes, Pierce, Richmond, Tattnall, and Toombs.Federal funding is also available on a cost-sharing basis for hazard mitigation measures statewide.9:30 a.m.Damage to Pretty Place video below: Full story here. 8:45 a.m. 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7:45 a.m.: How to help victims of Helene HERE 7 a.m. : I-40 East out of Buncombe County is open6 a.m.: To report a missing person in North Carolina or request non-emergency support, please call NC 211 or 1-888-892-1162 if calling from out-of-state.5:30 a.m. Latest on school closures, changes here. 5:10 a.m.: Burn ban in effect goes into effect for much of the area at 6 a.m.. For the latest counties involved, click here. 5 a.m.: More free food locations are being added to this list. Check it out here. Monday evening updates:9:15 p.m. Tryon International updateTryon International continues to house emergency personnel on property, and power has been restored to property and to some of our neighbors as of 6:30pm Monday evening. We have plenty of places to charge phones and to connect to free Guest Wifi for our local neighbors who need to recharge or connect with loved ones.The NC Emergency Management Field Hospital is currently being set up with completion expected on Tuesday and operations beginning Wednesday. We have learned today that Polk County will have a supply distribution and donation drop off location for hygiene supplies, water, and other essentials at Polk County High School tomorrow, Tuesday from 1:00-6:00pm.We are working with County officials to create a supply distribution and donation drop off point at the Lodging Office at Tryon International. As soon as this location is organized and operational, we will spread the word far and wide so that our friends and neighbors can access these needed supplies. We will also be offering a location to fill water jugs and containers with clean water. Hopefully, we will get the approval to begin this on Wednesday. We will share more in our update Tuesday night.Many have asked if they can ship us donations to distribute to the first responders and via our pending supply center. The answer is YES: if you are unable to physically bring donations but want to ship supplies to Tryon International for distribution, you can do so at the below address. Tryon InternationalAttn: Hurricane Donations4066 Pea Ridge RoadMill Spring, NC 28756Stay tuned to Tryon.com, our email newsletter, and social media outlets to learn more. Food Service Update:With power restored, our team is working on getting as many restaurants operational as possible by Wednesday, October 3rd, to support our community and the guests and first responders on-site. We will continue offering all-you-can-eat buffets that have previously been offered in Campagna Italian Cuisine, relocating to Legends Club. See Tuesday’s menu here.Menus and hours will be posted HERE as soon as available.Horse Shows:There are still more than 200 horses and competitors on-site from Tryon Fall 2, and we will resume competition at Tryon Fall 3 on Thursday. Many of our competitors have been inquiring about bringing donations and supplies with them, and we will welcome those donations and share freely with our neighbors. We are committed to keeping our employees working and their families supported, and running our horse shows is an important way to do that.Stay tuned or more updates to come as recovery and relief efforts continue.With questions, contact media@tryon.com.9 p.m. Campobello area boil water advisory repealedPlease be advised that the boil water advisory the Inman-Campobello Water District (ICWD) issued due to a water main break, has been repealed. This advisory applied to ICWD customers located in Campobello, and the surrounding area.8:50 p.m. Greenville County updateFor those in Greenville County needing critical assistance, please call 864-467-3428 between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. Greenville County Administration and Offices will open Tuesday, Oct. 1, at noon. You can make payments on line , and during this time, credit card fees will be waived. More on the website here. The South Carolina Forestry Commission will issue a State Foresters Burning Ban for Greenville County, effective at 6 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 1. The burning ban is intended to ease the strain on firefighting personnel and law enforcement officials from both the Forestry Commission and from local fire departments many of whom were dispatched to affected areas to assist with road clearing, damage assessment and related cleanup. Greenville County will begin roadside disaster-generated debris pick up starting on Wednesday. Citizens in the unincorporated areas of the County can carefully place downed trees along their roads. Crews will get to everyone, so please be patient.A medical shelter is open at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena for those who have electricity-dependent medical needs. Caregivers are welcome as well. Bottle water and ready-to-eat meals are being distributed at 35 E. Antrim Drive at McAllister Square. The distribution site will be available 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.8:30 p.m. Great Smoky Mountains National Park updateGreat Smoky National Park is receiving many questions regarding the status of the park and surrounding areas. We posted the below update on social media and the park website this evening in response to these questions: Wondering whether you should reschedule your trip to the Smokies due to impacts from Hurricane Helene? While parts of the national park are open, outdoor recreation is currently discouraged due to park staffing being stretched and visitor safety concerns. However, Sevier County, which includes Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville, is fully open to those who can access the county through safe routes. We are working hard to get all major park roads open to the public as soon as possible.We’ll continue to share updates on the status of roads and park facilities on the park’s Current Conditions page and social media. 8:15 p.m. SC Disaster Unemployment Benefit availableGov. Henry McMaster and S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce Executive Director William Floyd have announced that individuals living or working in Aiken, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Cherokee, Greenville, Greenwood, Lexington, Newberry, Oconee, Pickens, Saluda, and Spartanburg counties may be eligible for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) funds, which will be made available through the unemployment insurance benefits system. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has identified individuals living or working in these thirteen counties as being potentially eligible to receive DUA for the period of September 29, 2024, through April 5, 2025.The DUA program provides funds to assist people who became unemployed as a direct result of Hurricane Helene, the effects of which began September 25, 2024. DUA is also available to small business owners and the self-employed, including 1099 contract workers, who have lost personal income due to the disaster. More information here.8 p.m. Transylvania County updates A public curfew is in effect from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. for all of Transylvania County. Citizens are to limit travel during this period to emergencies only. Water is receding and many roads are open, but there are still downed trees and power lines throughout the county.The county is working to restore non-emergency services and will provide an update this evening for services that will be available on Tuesday.Transylvania County Schools will be closed through Friday, October 4, including all extracurricular activities and sports. The next update on school closures will be issued on Friday.County Emergency Management is working with Transylvania County Schools to establish feeding sites for children and to coordinate food distribution as resources arrive.Duke is reporting over 420 technicians in Henderson and Transylvania today. Power is expected to be restored to a majority of locations by Friday. Duke is starting work at substations and working out from there to restore power. Be wary of downed lines that may become active again as power is restored. If water has covered outlets, plugs or the power meter, electrical components and wiring will need to be replaced before re-energizing.Emergency management staff is working with Comporium to restore as much communication as possible within the county and exploring options to support wireless communications. Everyone is asked to please use water conservation measures. Power has been restored to the Brevard water treatment plant. Water service has been partially restored to the Town of Rosman, but is under a boil water advisory. Bottled water has been delivered to Rosman Town Hall. Be sure to boil water or use bottled water if your well or spring has been contaminated by flood water. Emergency management will be coordinating with fire departments to identify community needs and get resources distributed. If you are in need of water, reach out to your local fire department.Due to the support of Brunswick County Sheriff, we have started aerial damage assessments and will begin delivery of some supplies in areas that have not been accessible starting this afternoon. A wide variety of organizations are collaborating in the emergency response for our community from federal, state and local government agencies, nonprofits, faith community and private businesses. Anchor Baptist is coordinating volunteer efforts and is accepting donations to support those efforts. Please reach out to Anchor directly with donations or volunteer availability. Solid waste disposal sites for debris and spoiled food will open on Monday throughout the county. Locations include Anchor Baptist, Pisgah Forest Convenience Site, See Off Convenience Site, Zion Church in Rosman, and the parking area between County Tax Office and Library in Brevard.Dispose of any food that has been in contact with flood waters or not properly refrigerated. If in doubt, throw it out.Please remember, there is not a general shortage of fuel or food. Citizens are encouraged not to hoard fuel or food to prevent localized shortages from occurring. The shelter at the Transylvania County Parks and Recreation Center is open for people who cannot remain in their homes.7:55 p.m. Mobile charging stations availableT Mobile We have provided additional locations for our community support teams have been added for Monday, September 30. Teams will offer charging and Wi-Fi connectivity at the following locations, during their open hours. Please check back for updates as additional locations may be added or changes made based on evolving needs. Heres the information:North CarolinaHendersonville County Parks and Recreation Center at 708 South Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792Asheville Middle School at 211 S. French Broad Ave., Asheville, NC 28801Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center at 285 Livingston St. Asheville, NC 28801South CarolinaGreenwood County Emergency Medical Services at 528 Monument St., Greenwood, SC 29646Glenwood Baptist Church at 35 Saco Lowell Rd., Easley, SC 29640More information and ongoing updates can be found here: T-Mobile Responding to Hurricane Helene (Updated: 9/30) – T-Mobile NewsroomOptimumAll of downtown Hendersonville, North Carolina has data service if they have Optimum.Optimum is offering free Wi-Fi to the community for those who need it at this office location: Address: 451 N Main St, Hendersonville NCWell have a charging location available by tomorrow for the community.6:40 p.m. Oconee Joint Regional Sewer AuthorityUpdate:The following advisories and requests shall continue to remain in place for the foreseeable future:People and pets should avoid contact with all creeks and waterbodies in the area due to potential wastewater contamination or other environmental hazards. The OJRSA and South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (formerly the Department of Health and Environmental Control) will continue to monitor the situation to determine when this advisory can be repealed.If customers observe a possible overflow of wastewater from a manhole or other vault, they should avoid the area and notify the OJRSA by calling 864-972-3900.The Coneross Creek Water Reclamation Facility has returned to normal operating status as the grit and sludge pumps have been unclogged. The amount of flow treated continues to trend downward, which is a good indication that there has been a considerable reduction in stormwater entering the sewer system. The current treatment rate is 3,500 gallons per minute (5.1 million gallons per day), which includes the treatment of stored flow. The OJRSA is currently storing about 2.0 million gallons onsite and 1.6 million gallons at our offsite storage tank and releasing it into the treatment process as we are able. It will take several more days to treat the stored flow.With the startup of the Duck Pond Pump Station earlier today, the sanitary sewer overflow (SSO) at Duck Pond Reservoir has ceased. There are no more known SSOs within the OJRSAs system at this time.Current breakdown for power service at our critical pump and treatment facilities:On utility power: 14, including the treatment plantOn generator power and operational: 2No power and not operational: 1 Pelham Creek Pump Station. We will continue a pump-and-haul operation from the storage vessel at the station on an as-needed basis.Out of service/offline: 0The OJRSA has remained in communication with the Department of Environmental Services throughout the emergency. We are currently working with the agency regarding the documentation of spills and operational matters.6:35 p.m. Western North Carolina correctional facilities evacuated The North Carolina Department of Adult Correction today evacuated approximately 400 offenders from Western Correctional Center for Women in Swannanoa and the Black Mountain Substance Abuse Treatment Center for Women in Black Mountain.NCDAC made the evacuation decision based on the expected long timeframe for water and power restoration to these locations. Buses arrived Monday morning, and all offenders were successfully transported to other correctional facilities for women by early evening.All offenders are safe, and NCDAC is taking appropriate steps to ensure continued health and safety of staff and offenders. Family and friends of offenders are asked not to call the prisons to check on a loved one. Relocated offenders will be able to make phone calls after they arrive at their destinations. The online Offender Locator will be updated within 24 hours to indicate where individual offenders are temporarily rehoused.Some of the 360 minimum-custody offenders at WCCW moved to Anson Correctional Institution in Polkton, and others moved to North Carolina Correctional Institution for Women in Raleigh. The 45 offenders receiving in-patient alcohol and drug treatment at the Black Mountain treatment center were taken to the North Piedmont Confinement in Response to Violation facility in Lexington.The duration of the relocations will depend on the time required to restore water and power.For more information on NCDAC actions in response to Tropical Storm Helene, visit dac.nc.gov/Helene.6:30 p.m. update from Greenwood CountyWe continue to make progress in Greenwood County as crews and staff work tirelessly to clear roads, restore power, and manage debris and cleanup efforts. All updates are posted to the county’s Facebook page.DISASTER DECLARATIONGreenwood County is included in Governor Henry McMaster’s Federal Major Disaster Declaration.FOOD DISTRIBUTIONToday: MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) and water bottles were distributed at Greenwood City Hall.Tomorrow: More MREs and water will be distributed at 12:00 p.m. at Ninety Six First Baptist Church (205 North Church Street), Ninety Six.DEBRIS REMOVALTeam Rubicon, the National Guard, and the State Forestry Commission continue assisting Greenwood County Fire Services, the City of Greenwood Fire Department, and Greenwood County and the City of Greenwood Public Works.POWER RESTORATIONGreenwood CPW and Duke Energy are diligently working to restore power. For updates, visit Duke Energys Outage Map and follow Greenwood CPWs Facebook page. Always assume downed lines are energized for safety.LANDFILL AND DEBRIS INFORMATIONGreenwood County Landfill: 1115 Siloam Church Road, open 7 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily.Convenience Centers: Currently closed; storm debris will NOT be accepted upon reopening. Updates will be on social media.GREENWOOD COUNTY OFFICESGreenwood County Offices will reopen tomorrow, October 1, 2024. Temporary relocations:Building Inspections: Greenwood City HallPlanning, Lake Management, Engineering: Room 200 at the Greenwood County CourthouseGeneral Sessions Court: Not held tomorrow.ELECTRICAL PERMITSElectrical permits are required for repairs. Apply online or call the Building Department at (864) 942-8424 for inspections (9 a.m. – 5 p.m.).Apply for electrical permits hereLAKE GREENWOODAs inflow slows, outflow is being reduced, and lake levels will begin to normalize.FARMING NEEDSFarmers needing water for cattle, please contact the Emergency Operations Center at 864-942-8553.VOLUNTEER INFORMATIONIndividuals and groups wanting to volunteer for cleanup efforts should call the Greenwood County Emergency Operations Center at 864-942-8553 and ask for Gerry Partridge.CHARGING STATIONA T-Mobile charging station is available 24 hours daily at the Uptown Fountain in front of 418 Main Street, Greenwood.SHELTERS & RESOURCESAmerican Red Cross Shelter: Greenwood Family YMCA (1760 Calhoun Rd) – open for showers, phone charging, and Wi-Fi access from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.The Salvation Army: 222 Pressley Ave – open from 9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. for phone charging and food box distribution from 9:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., Monday through Thursday, while supplies last.6:25 p.m. Polk County updatesPolk County Local Government Public Notice to Polk County ResidentsProgress in Hardest Hit AreasWe want to inform everyone that emergency responders are beginning to access areas that were previously impassable. Our teams are diligently working to make face-to-face contact with residents in the hardest-hit regions, particularly in the western part of the county where communication has been limited.We understand that family and friends are eager for updates on their loved ones. As we make contact, we are committed to keeping detailed records of those we reach, including their status and whether they choose to move to a shelter or require transportation to area hospitals.We strongly encourage residents in affected areas, especially those without power or water and those with medical needs, to evacuate to safe locations with family or friends or to the Polk County High School Shelter. This shelter will serve as the initial distribution point for food, water and supplies as they become available.To ensure the safety of all residents and emergency crews, please keep travel limited to essential movement only for evacuation to safety or to obtain critical supplies. Roads may still be hazardous, and unnecessary travel could hinder emergency response efforts.If you need immediate assistance, please reach out to our dedicated phone lines at 828-722-5025 or 828-722-5026. While we are monitoring social media, it may not be the best way to communicate urgent needs unless no other options are available.Food and Supply InformationA drive-thru food pickup, including non-perishable items and brown bag meals, will take place Tuesday, October 1st, at Polk County High School from 1-6 p.m. or until supplies last.As additional resources arrive, we will ensure they are distributed to areas still cut off. We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we continue these critical operations.Each afternoon between 4-6 p.m, we will update the community through verified Polk County government social media platforms, websites, Everbridge, community bulletin boards and government buildings.Outside DonationsFor those wishing to support Polk County residents, outside donations can be brought to Thermal Belt Outreach, located at 134 White Drive, Columbus, NC. To ensure donations are utilized to the best of our capabilities, we ask that donations be non-perishable food and comfort supplies.Drop-offs will be accepted from Tuesday, October 1st through Thursday, October 3rd, 8 a.m.-4 p.m.Moving ForwardIn the wake of Hurricane Helene, Polk County stands united in the spirit of rescue and recovery. Together, we will support one another, heal our community, and build a future grounded in hope and resilience.* Polk County Schools * Polk County Local Government6:20 p.m. Asheville UpdatesFood and Water DistributionThe City has ordered food and water supplies. We hope to receive these supplies in the next day or two. Until then, please be conservative and help your neighbors if possible. Pack Square Park Water DistributionDrinking water will be distributed from Pack Square Park (70 Court Plaza) beginning at 1 p.m. until dark or when the supply runs out. Each person will be provided 2 gallons of water per person, with a maximum of 5 gallons per family.EACH PERSON MUST BRING THEIR OWN CONTAINER, NONE WILL BE PROVIDED. For the safety of everyone involved, traffic will be directed around the park and the distribution site will be walk-up only. Assistance will be available for those who cannot carry their water back to their cars. The community is encouraged to park in nearby parking decks and surface lots. Please do not park in roadways in order to avoid impeding on emergency response. Cellular ServiceA temporary Verizon cellular satellite trailer is located at the Family Justice Center at 35 Woodfin Street. This tower will offer an opportunity for limited cellular reception within several city blocks of where it is parked. Additionally, T-mobile has set up satellite cellular on light trucks in Asheville. These SatCOLTs provide cellular voice and data, along with Wi-Fi and charging stations. Trucks are located at Asheville Middle School at 211 S French Broad Ave, and Dr. Wesley Grant Sr. Southside Community Center at 285 Livingston St. City offices and parks closedCity of Asheville offices and parks will be closed until further notice. Trash and Recycling service suspendedThere will be no trash and recycling service in the City of Asheville until further notice. ART Bus service suspendedBus service remains suspended while buses are involved in relief efforts.Sign up for AVL Alerts, visit the City of Asheville website at www.ashevillenc.gov and follow on Facebook or X at @AshevilleFD.6 p.m.: South Carolina latest impactsTeam South Carolina continues its response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene’s impacts. State and local agencies are working closely together to restore power and ensure resources reach communities across the state.Utility crews are working around the clock to bring electricity back to affected areas, while emergency management teams are coordinating food, water, and shelter support for those in need.The state remains focused on assisting impacted residents, clearing debris, and helping rebuild infrastructure. South Carolina’s state agencies and local partners report the following as of 2:00 p.m. today:The South Carolina Emergency Management Division remains at OPCON 1 and has responded to 534 logistical requests. The requests range from shelter assistance to debris removal.Thousands of line workers are working around the clock to make power repairs. As of 2:00 pm 745,593 outages were reported.The South Carolina Department of Transportation continues to focus on cleanup efforts throughout the state. Crews are working around the clock to clear roadways and get South Carolina back to normal.10 general population shelters are currently in operation. View shelter information here.Decisions to open shelters are made at the local level.The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) has been in contact with 212 health care facilities to check on their power/electricity status and assist with any needs. DPH Care Line has received a total of 1,015 calls.The South Carolina National Guard has 600 service members on state active duty. Support to counties has included SCHART missions to NC. On Sept. 29, 2024, the HART team rescued 30 individuals and 1 infant from the Lake Lure/Chimney Rock area. Also available; Aviation support for damage assessment, debris clearing, water pallet delivery, communications, traffic control assistance, transportation, POD, damage assessment (ground), vehicle recovery, general purpose troops for support, and security (non-armed) general purpose troops. Soldiers have completed missions in Lexington, Columbia, Oconee, Anderson, Greenville, Richland, Edgefield, Saluda, York, Pickens, Cherokee, McCormick, Aiken, Spartanburg, Laurens, and Greenwood counties.Road safety remains a priority, South Carolina Department of Public Safety Highway Patrol Troopers and State Transport Police Officers have responded to 4,423 incidents. The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services can confirm post-storm assessments for the condition of 104 dams and there are no significant issues reported or observed.The South Carolina Department of Commerce encourages businesses with any unmet needs or questions to contact the ESF 24 desk (803-737-8524 or esf24@emd.sc.gov) for assistance and information on resources. South Carolina’s price gouging law is in effect. Price fluctuations are to be expected, but if you see a price you think is gouging, report it on the South Carolina Attorney Generals website https://www.scag.gov/price-gouging/ or by calling 803-737-3953. The agency will need the name and address of the business along with pictures of the business, price and your contact information. The South Carolina Department of Social Services (DSS) is working with federal partners on the process and pathway to issue replacement of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits for those impacted by Hurricane Helene and the resulting loss of power. Once more information is available, it will be released by DSS via official messages.Those interested in volunteering are reminded not to enter impacted areas unless specifically requested. South Carolina Voluntary Organizations Active in Disasters (SCVOAD) have systems to manage support if needed. Before heading to a disaster zone, keep these things in mind:Help your local community first.First responders are focused on life-saving efforts and cannot support unplanned volunteers.Always connect with a recognized organization and confirm they’ve been asked to respond.Wait until it’s safe to travel and opportunities are available.Ensure you have an assignment and proper safety gear for your role.Check with your employer to arrange time off if needed.Volunteers will be needed for months and even years after the disaster, especially in the long-term recovery phase. Explore all volunteer and donation opportunities through the South Carolina Emergency Management Division at https://www.scemd.org/recover/volunteer-and-donate/. South Carolina residents with questions about the storm can now call the states toll-free hotline. Operators with the States Public Information Phone System are available 24/7 and will remain on hand for as long as needed to provide assistance.Hurricane Helene Information Line: 1-866-246-0133.Residents can also use the Damage Assessment tool in the SC Emergency Manager app to report property damage to authorities. Download the app on the App Store and on Google Play: http://onelink.to/dn92rx.6 p.m.: Henderson County Update *Henderson County remains in a State of Emergency and the 8pm to 8am curfew is still in effect for the entire County.*Our emergency teams continue to work calls and rescues across the county. Please limit travel so crews can not only work emergencies but also Duke Energy crews can work on restoring power.*The county has launched an official hub to gather requests for donations and volunteer signups for local individuals and organizations. Visit www.visithendersonvillenc.org/helene-relief for more information.*The Henderson County Transfer Station remains open tomorrow and will accept storm debris with the normal fees. We are still working on a free storm debris site that will be available soon.*The County is gathering supplies from Federal, State and Local resources. Stay tuned for more information on distribution.*Hendersonville Water & Sewer has made progress in stabilizing the central areas of the water distribution system. Crews have been working to bring water service back to the east side of the County. All water customers remain under a System Pressure Advisory and are advised to use bottled water or boil water before consuming. Customers will be notified using the Citys AlertHVL system using the customers billing contact information when their System Pressure Advisory is lifted. Those customers with water service are encouraged to conserve water.*Our call center is available for all non-medical requests for information. Please call 828-771-6670 or email Helene-info@hcem.org. For emergencies, please call 911.*For more information visit www.hendersoncountync.gov and click on the Hurricane Helene Updates banner.6:05 p.m.City of Hendersonville water updateCurrently, all Hendersonville water customers remain under a system pressure advisory. Portions of the water system are experiencing outages and periods of low pressure in the distribution system.Hendersonville, NC City Government Once an account owners water service is restored, customers who have electric or alternative power are advised to boil all water used for human consumption (including drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation). Those without power are advised to use bottled water for the purposes mentioned above. Interruptions of water service require the issuance of a System Pressure Advisory.Our partners at Henderson County have tirelessly worked to establish resource hubs at various community locations to distribute bottled water. If you are in need of bottled water, we recommend you obtain it at these hubs as well as the many organizations throughout the community who are stepping up to provide assistance.Water restoration updates:Crews have made great progress in accessing flood damage at the Water Treatment Plant and due to their efforts, the plants ability to treat water has almost returned to pre-storm levels.There are still multiple line breaks and leaks throughout the distribution system. Crews are making good progress in assessing damaged lines and infrastructure, although some areas of the County are still posing challenges in terms of access. Staff are continuing to assess the situation and are evaluating locations where water is being lost in the system, and working to isolate them.We are aware that portions of the system, including communities in the Fletcher area, Edneyville and areas east of I-26, and Saluda are without water. As the repairs are made and reservoirs fill, the utility will begin bringing sections of the system back into water and repair line breaks.It will take time to bring the system back to normal levels and distribution ability. Staff are prioritizing areas with the highest number of impacted customers and critical public health and safety customers. We are pleased that due to the around-the-clock work of our staff, we were able to restore water service to our local hospitals early in the recovery efforts.At this time, general questions related to recovery efforts can be directed to the Henderson Countys call center number at 828-771-6670.Customers who are fortunate enough to have water are asked to conserve water for only essential uses until the system can be repaired and water restored to all customers.Additional Information can be found by visiting www.hvlnc.gov/helene.5:55p.m.: SCDMV gives renewal extensions The South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles is announcing several extensions of expirations to help customers affected by Tropical Storm Helene. All noncommercial drivers licenses, identification cards, beginners permits and placards for those with disabilities that are scheduled to expire from Sept. 25 through Oct. 31 should be considered valid until Nov. 1, 2024. All businesses, agencies and organizations are encouraged to accept these as valid until that date. All South Carolina-registered vehicles with registration expiration dates in September will be considered valid until Nov. 1, 2024. Because some residents will be delayed in paying vehicle property taxes or will receive their tax bills late, the SCDMV will suspend the collection of late fees for late vehicle registration renewals until Nov. 1, 2024. Customers must visit a branch office to take advantage of the late fee suspension; SCDMV website transactions will continue to include late fees for all transactions. Suspensions of drivers licenses for failure to pay property taxes also will be suspended until Nov. 1, 2024. All temporary license plates set to expire between Sept. 25 and Oct. 31 should be considered valid until Nov. 1, 2024. Vehicles that have expired temporary plates that are not properly titled and registered within 45 days after Nov. 1, 2024, will be considered as having expired registrations. Drivers traveling outside of South Carolina with licenses or registrations that are past their printed expirations should take this explanatory letter from SCDMV Executive Director Kevin Shwedo, however, please take note that this letter does not guarantee that other jurisdictions will recognize or accept the extended expiration dates. 5:55 p.m.: Haywood County supply distributions and donation drop-off Tuesday, Oct. 1, at Woodland Baptist Church, 545 Crabtree Rd, Waynesville If you’ve been affected by the storm, essential supplies will be distributed at Woodland Baptist Church tomorrow from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. There will be food, water, baby supplies, dog food, limited cleaning supplied For those looking to help, this location is also accepting donations of supplies to support families in need. Lets come together as a community to ensure everyone has the resources they need to recover.6 p.m. Hendersonville water updateCurrently all Hendersonville water customers remain under a system pressure advisory. Portions of the water system are experiencing outages and periods of low pressure in the distribution system.Once an account owners water service is restored, customers who have electric or alternative power are advised to boil all water used for human consumption (including drinking, making ice, brushing teeth, washing dishes and food preparation). Those without power are advised to use bottled water for the purposes mentioned above. Interruptions of water service require the issuance of a System Pressure Advisory.Our partners at Henderson County have tirelessly worked to establish resource hubs at various community locations to distribute bottled water. If you are in need of bottled water, we recommend you obtain it at these hubs as well as the many organizations throughout the community who are stepping up to provide assistance.Water restoration updates:Crews have made great progress in accessing flood damage at the Water Treatment Plant and due to their efforts, the plants ability to treat water has almost returned to pre-storm levels.There are still multiple line breaks and leaks throughout the distribution system. Crews are making good progress in assessing damaged lines and infrastructure, although some areas of the County are still posing challenges in terms of access. Staff are continuing to assess the situation and are evaluating locations where water is being lost in the system, and working to isolate them.We are aware that portions of the system, including communities in the Fletcher area, Edneyville and areas east of I-26, and Saluda are without water. As the repairs are made and reservoirs fill, the utility will begin bringing sections of the system back into water and repair line breaks.It will take time to bring the system back to normal levels and distribution ability. Staff are prioritizing areas with the highest number of impacted customers and critical public health and safety customers. We are pleased that due to the around-the-clock work of our staff, we were able to restore water service to our local hospitals early in the recovery efforts.At this time, general questions related to recovery efforts can be directed to the Henderson Countys call center number at 828-771-6670.Customers who are fortunate enough to have water are asked to conserve water for only essential uses until the system can be repaired and water restored to all customers.Additional Information can be found by visiting www.hvlnc.gov/helene.5:30 p.m. update from Clemson UniversityClemson Universitys main campus will be open on Tuesday, Oct. 1. Pickens County government offices are open, and as a state agency, the University is required to follow the same opening status of county government.Classes are scheduled and should be conducted at the discretion of instructors, and staff should report to work as able.Timekeeping, Absences and Leave GuidanceAll faculty, staff and students should understand individuals continue to face challenges with power outages. Please continue to provide grace, understanding and flexibility to each other.Many employees have asked about documenting leave during this event. Additional guidance will be provided by the Office of Human Resources and Payroll.Statewide Clemson LocationsAll Clemson statewide locations should follow the same opening status made by the county government where their office is located. A full list of delays and closings is always available on the South Carolina Emergency Management Division website.5 p.m. Spartanburg County updateSpartanburg County will be distributing bottled waters and MREs at the following two locations starting at 5 p.m. Monday:1875 E. Main Street, Duncan (SCC’s Tyger River Campus)9070 Hwy 11, CampobelloAdditional Resources:SHELTERS:Medical Needs Shelter: 365 Hodge Drive, Spartanburg (USC Upstate’s campus)General Population Shelter: Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium, 385 N. Church Street, SpartanburgSHOWERS:Lyman First Baptist: 80 Groce Road, open until 5:00 p.m. today, and 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. tomorrow (10/1). Bring your own towels and soap.PHARMACIES:ReGenesis Family Pharmacy: 460 Langdon St., Spartanburg, (864) 285 – 9867, Open 9:00am – 6:00pmReGenesis Community Family Pharmacy: E. Main St., Duncan, (864) 416 – 7933, Open 9:00am – 7:00pmReGenesis Community Family Pharmacy: S. Church St., Spartanburg, (864) 699 – 3283, Open 10:30am – 6:00pmWalgreens: N. Pine Street, Spartanburg, open 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. today, 11 a.m – 6 p.m. SundayDial a Ride: 1-800-277-7762 or 864-560-4118GROCERY STORES:Publix: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, open 7 a.m. – 9 p.m.Fresh Market: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, open 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.Walmart: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, and Neighborhood Market in Cedar SpringsCostco: W. Blackstock Rd, Spartanburg, open till 6 p.m.Sam’s Club: Westside of SpartanburgPublix: Hwy 9 in Boiling Springs, pharmacy hours 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. SundayTarget: Hwy 9 in Boiling SpringsBig Lots: N. Pine St, Spartanburg, open 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.Lidl: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, open 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.Lowes Foods: E. Suber Road Greer, open 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.Ingles: DuncanPublix: Duncan (Hwy 290 and 296)Food Lion: WoodruffKJ’s: LymanGAS STATIONS:Club Corner: Hwy 56 near Carolina Country Club Road, SpartanburgWhite’s Exxon: S. Pine Street, SpartanburgValero: New Cut Road, SpartanburgSwift: Fairforest (near Business 85), SpartanburgCircle K: E. Main Street, Spartanburg and Asheville Hwy and Springfield Road, SpartanburgQuikTrip: Boiling Springs (near Target and at I-85 exit)Raceway: Boiling Springs (at I-85 exit)QuikTrip: Spartangreen Blvd, Duncan, open 24 hoursSpinx: Boiling Springs Road, Spartanburg, open 24 hoursFreeman Gas: California Avenue & Howard Street, filling up propane tanksICE:Harman Brothers Ice: 646 Buffington Road, SpartanburgWhitney Road Ice House: 367 Whitney Road, Spartanburg, at Spartanburg Community Thrift StoreBoiling Springs Ice House: 3515 Boiling Springs Road at Cantrell PlazaRESTAURANTS:Gerhard’s Cafe: E. Main Street, SpartanburgGreen Olive: Asheville Hwy, SpartanburgChick-fil-a: Asheville Hwy (near Hearon Circle), SpartanburgApplebee’s: E. Main Street, SpartanburgFuji’s: E. Main Street, SpartanburgTropical Grill: E. Main Street, SpartanburgTaco Dog: E. Main Street, SpartanburgChipotle: E. Main Street, SpartanburgCookout: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, open 10:30 a.m. – 3:30 a.m.Jersey Mike’s: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, open 10 a.m. – 9 p.m.Sully’s Steamers: N Church Street, Spartanburg, open 7 a.m. – midnightSubway: N. Pine St, Spartanburg, open 8 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.Knowledge Perk Coffee Company: N. Church Street, Spartanburg, open 6 a.m. -7 p.m.El Chingon Mexican Restaurant Bar & Grill: Battleground Road, Cowpens, open 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.Saki Sushi and Hibachi: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, open 11 a.m – 10 p.m., closes at 9:30 p.m. on Sunday.Zaxbys: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, open 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.Hardees: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, open 5 a.m. – 9 p.m., opens 6 a.m. on Sunday.Moes Original BBQ: N. Church Street, Spartanburg, open 11 a.m. – 8:30 p.m., 11 a.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday, 11 a.m. – 8 p.m. Sunday, closed Monday.El Chinchorro Boricua: E. Main Street, Spartanburg, open 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., closed Monday.Eat Street Grill: Dawn Redwood Drive, Spartanburg, open 11 a.m. – 9 p.m., closed Sunday and Monday.FOOD TRUCKS:Denny’s: E. Broad Street, Spartanburg4:50 p.m. Asheville Airport updateRelief flights are coming to the airport. Can I come to the airport to receive supplies, such as water and food? No DO NOT come to the airport to find relief supplies. The airport is the gateway for flights to arrive, and supplies are unloaded and trucked to distribution points throughout the region. Emergency agencies are coordinating these efforts and will communicate distribution locations through their communication channels.Are commercial flights operating/is the airport open? Yes. Commercial flights resumed today, 9/30/24. However, airlines are not resuming full schedules yet, so some flights may still be cancelled. Passengers should contact their airline for the most up-to-date information about their specific flight status before coming to the airport.Can I check flight status on the airports website? No. The airports website is not updating, due to the internet issues in the region. Again, check flight status with your airline for accurate flight status information.Did parking lots flood? Are cars ok? No parking lots flooded during the storm, and all cars are fine. Customers who have not been able to return to the airport to retrieve their cars should not worry. Also, the airport has waived the additional fees that would have accumulated for the days during the storm and during this week of recovery.Is ground transportation available? Because of fuel and roadway issues, ground transportation is difficult to obtain at this time. Travelers should make pick-up arrangements with friends or family if possible.Can I rent a car? Can I return a rental car? Renting cars is still difficult, due to the internet issues in the region. If you pre-booked on a rental car companys app for a premium product, you may be able to pick up your car at the airport. Check with your rental car provider. Rental car returns can still occur at the airport.4:50 p.m. Walhalla storm recovery updateAbout half of the city of Walhalla currently has power restored, but we know many of you are still without electricity. Please be cautious around downed power lines, as they remain dangerous. Duke Energy is aiming to restore power to most homes by Wednesday, and we are working closely with them to monitor downed lines and broken utility poles to expedite the process.We have been in continual contact with Duke Energy and Blue Ridge Electrical Co-op officials throughout the weekend and a Duke official told me this morning that his company is targeting a Wednesday power restoration for most of those still without power in Walhalla. For those still without power, we encourage you to seek available resources, including the temporary Hurricane Shelter at College Street Baptist at 401 S College St. We will continue providing updates and support as we work through this together.Important numbers to keep handy:Walhalla Police Department: 864-638-5831Walhalla Fire Department: 864-638-4345Walhalla City Hall: 864-638-4343 (also for water emergencies during business hours)After hours Walhalla water emergencies: 864-499-4162Oconee County Sheriffs Department: 864-638-4111Oconee Emergency Services: 864-364-5911SC DOT Customer Service: 855-467-236