Devastation in Greenville, SC: Impact of Tropical Storm Helene on Power and Access

Tropical Storm Helene has left 76% of Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative members without power in Greenville, SC. Current outage numbers indicate significant challenges in restoration efforts. Residents face blocked roads due to fallen trees and power lines, with power restoration ongoing.

As of 8:20 p.m. on the latest update, approximately 76% of Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative members, equating to around 55,395 individuals, remain without power due to severe destruction caused by Tropical Storm Helene. Power restoration efforts have so far restored electricity to 8,000 homes today.

Current power outage statistics by county are as follows: Anderson has 9,074 outages, Greenville reports 5,538, Oconee has 18,653, Pickens lists 22,080, while Spartanburg has 43. Residents have expressed difficulties navigating around fallen trees and power lines.

Residents in affected areas, particularly near Piedmont Park Rd, have reported significant blockages due to downed trees and power lines, preventing access to nearby areas such as Cherrydale, Wade Hampton, and Rutherford Rd. Residents are encouraged to prepare for potential extended power outages.

Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative has deployed approximately 216 workers for field assessments and repairs, with an additional 17 workers arriving from Maryland and Virginia. As of 1 p.m., nearly 88% of members remain without power. The continuing storm damage presents challenges for recovery efforts and community safety.

In summary, Greenville, SC, is facing significant power outages and damage due to Tropical Storm Helene, affecting approximately 76% of Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative’s members. With ongoing restoration efforts and reports of hazardous road conditions, residents are advised to prepare for prolonged outages and to exercise caution when traveling. Community efforts are underway to address the damage efficiently.

Original Source: weather.com