South Carolina: Impacts from Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene is bringing heavy rain and gusty winds to the Carolinas. Here you will find updates throughout the day and night on how it’s impacting the Carolinas and Georgia.>>For the very latest forecast, track, and more, click here. 3:20 a.m.The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a flash flood warning for Henderson County, Polk County and Transylvania County in western North Carolina until 8:15 a.m.Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 6 and 9 inches of rain have fallen. Significant flooding appears likely across much of the warned area, with numerous road closures and water rescues likely, damage to even well-built structures, and standing in low-lying areas.3:10 a.m. Thousands of power outages are being reported across our area. At least 11,000 in across the Upstate and 20,000 in Western North Carolina. Keep track of outages here.2:40 a.m. update: The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has extended the flash flood warning for Henderson County in western North Carolina until 6 a.m. Moderate to heavy rain continues to move across the area where between 4 and 7 inches of rain has fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 1 to 2 inches in 1 hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.2 a.m. update: Greer police say that due to flooding, East Suber Road at Sweetbriar Court will be closed until further notice. 1:30 a.m. update:Flash flood warning issued for McDowell County in western North Carolina until 4:45 a.m. Friday. As of 1:33 a.m. persistent moderate to heavy rainfall today has resulted in between 4 and 7 inches of additional rainfall across the area. A band of moderate to at times heavy rain will move into the area with rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches around 2:30 a.m.1:15 a.m. update:Flash flood warning issued for Henderson County in western North Carolina until 3 a.m.At 1:12 a.m., moderate to heavy rain continues to move across the area where between 4 and 7 inches of rain has fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 1 to 2 inches in 1 hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area. Life-threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams, low-water crossings, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses is expected.12:20 a.m. update: Duke Energy reports about 1,000 customers without power in Greenville County. 11:40 p.m. update:The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office announced a flash flood advisory is in effect until 1:30 a.m. Friday as moderate to heavy rain continues throughout the county. Deputies said life-threatening flash flooding is near creeks and streams, low-water crossings, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses.11:00 p.m. update:North Carolina Red Cross announce additional shelters have been opened in Buncombe County.The Red Cross shelter located at First Baptist Swannanoa remains open for those affected by severe weather in the Asheville area, and a second shelter at Trinity Baptist Church has been opened. Additionally, disaster teams are working closely with emergency management officials and several other community partners to offer and support additional shelter needs, aid, and recovery assistance where needed. 10:45 p.m. update:Officials in Jeff Davis County, Georgia confirm two people have died due to impacts from Hurricane Helene. Jeff Davis County Emergency Management said their trailer was lifted off its foundation and thrown into a nearby peanut field. The incident happened on Highway 19 four miles out of Lumber City. More on the story here.10:40 p.m. update:The Oconee County Sheriff’s Office reported that the Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative has been notified of a scam targeting its customers ahead of Hurricane Helene. A customer reported receiving a phone call from an unauthorized party demanding partial payment to avoid service disconnection.According to officials, if you receive a call pressuring you for payment or personal information, hang up and call us at (800) 240-3400. If you feel threatened, contact local law enforcement.The Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative will never ask for payment in this manner. The company stated if we contact you, our representatives will verify the call by providing information only you and the company would know.10:30 p.m. update:Upstate counties make final preparations before Hurricane Helene arrives.10:10 p.m. update:All Greenville County Government buildings will have a delayed opening at 10:00 a.m. Friday.9:50 p.m. update:Spartanburg Police Department announced several roads are closed due to standing water including; the underpass at Franklin and Fairgrounds, W.O. Ezell Blvd near Chester Street, Howard Street from Fairgrounds to California Avenue.9:30 p.m. update:Greenville Police Department report Cleveland Park is currently closed until further notice as water levels rise.9:00 p.m. update:The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Watch for the following counties: Greenwood, Laurens and Union until 8 a.m. Friday.8:30 p.m. update:Henderson County Sheriff’s Office said significant flooding is expected along the French Broad River Valley. Impacts are expected to exceed those from the 2004 storms Francis & Ivan and potentially exceed the Flood of 1916. Residents within the 500-year floodplain in Etowah, Mills River and Fletcher should make plans to evacuate as the river is expected to continue to rise over the next 24 hours and break the all-time water levels record by over 10 feet.For more information, click here.8:20 p.m. update:Yancey County Sheriff’s Office announced a curfew will be in effect from 10 p.m. Thursday until 7 a.m. Friday. During this time, non-essential travel is restricted. Deputies said, “Please stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary to ensure everyone’s safety as Tropical Storm Helene impacts our area.”7:55 p.m. update:The city of Easley, South Carolina announced due to severe weather, administrative offices at the Easley Police Department and the City of Easley Court will be closed Friday.7:50 p.m. update:The North Carolina Department of Transportation closed NC 106 in both directions near the Blue Valley Overlook, southeast of Highlands. NCDOT said heavy rains caused a fill slope failure, impacting the roadway about seven miles from the Georgia border.A detour has been determined for both trucks and other vehicles until the road is deemed safe to open. Detour information can found at the bottom of this story.7:30 p.m. update:Duke Energy urges caution as Helene increases flood risks in the Carolinas, particularly along the Catawba-Wateree River Basin. Officials said lake levels are expected to rise sharply as heavy rains from Helene add to the many inches of rain the region already received this week.6:15 p.m. update:Areas in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia are flooding as Helene makes its way north.6:00 p.m. update:Henderson County, North Carolina announced Apple Country Public Transit will continue service for Route 1 and Route 3 until their scheduled final runs on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The transit system will not run any service on Friday.5:15 p.m. update:Pickens County declares state of emergency as heavy rainfall and wind gusts up to 60 miles per hour is expected Thursday evening into Friday morning. Officials advise the public to avoid travel if at all possible. Pickens County offices, including the landfill, will delay opening Friday until 12 p.m. All Pickens County recycle centers will remain closed all day Friday and resume normal hours of operation on Saturday.5:10 p.m. update:The Easley Police Department reports significant flash flooding in some areas throughout the city. Officers urge drivers to be aware of the following streets that typically flood quickly under extreme weather conditions.Edgemont AvenueOld Stagecoach RoadMcBee Avenue at Anzio StreetHighland Park CourtPendleton StreetMcAlister RoadFleetwood DriveHamilton StreetPope Field Road4:45 p.m. update:Oconee County, South Carolina officials announced a temporary hurricane shelter will open its doors at 6 p.m., Thursday. The shelter is located at the College Street Baptist Church, 401 S. College Street, Walhalla, South Carolina. The shelter is open for men, women and children (no pets) in Oconee County seeking refuge from severe weather related to Helene. The Red Cross will provide cots and blankets in the shelter. For additional information regarding the shelter, the public should contact (864) 364-5911. 4:35 p.m. update:American Red Cross announces the opening of two shelters in the Upstate for individuals and families who need assistance. The Red Cross is working closely with emergency management and government officials in the impacted areas. The two shelters that the Red Cross is opening can be found at:160 Ivory Key Rd. Saluda, SC 29138 (Saluda High School). Opening at 8 p.m.219 S Fishtrap Rd, Greenville, SC 29611 (Crosswell First Baptist Church)4:30 p.m. update:Some areas in Hendersonville, North Carolina are flooding including Spartanburg Highway.4:05 p.m. update: “North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein today announced that the state’s price gouging law is in effect for Hurricane Helene. North Carolina’s law against price gouging, or charging too much in times of a crisis, goes into effect when the governor or the legislature declares a state of emergency. In some cases, businesses and industries that are heavily impacted by the incident causing the state of emergency have a reasonable need to increase prices in order to resupply, but they should disclose these increases so people can make informed purchasing decisions. Businesses cannot, however, unreasonably raise the price of goods or services to profit from a state of emergency.”Following the storm, please report potential price gouging by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or by filing a complaint at p.m. update: “The American Red Cross has opened a shelter at Crosswell Baptist Church, 219 S. Fishtrap Rd, Greenville, SC 29611 for those along the Saluda River who may need to evacuate their homes due to the rising water.”According to the National Weather Service, the Saluda River near Highway 123 is forecast to rise higher than the February 2020 storm that did force some displacement. This shelter would serve those from Greenville and Pickens Counties. “Some roads that may be impacted include but not limited to, Riverview Drive, Knollview Drive, Riverview Circle, and Sentell Court”The American Red Cross would be your point of contact for any activities at the shelter. Greenville County and Greenville County Emergency Management are sharing this message to alert the media and the public of this resource that the Red Cross is providing.”3:45 p.m. update:The Chattooga River at Bull Sluice in Mountain Rest, South Carolina, is flooding from widespread rain.3:25 p.m. update: The South Carolina Department of Transportation has 2,300 personnel mobilized and working around the clock to respond to impacts from Hurricane Helene. The potential for rain, high winds, and risk of tornadoes means the possibility of debris and flooding impacting roadways. SCDOT encourages drivers to avoid travel if possible, especially after dark. SCDOT encourages drivers to avoid travel. If you have to be out, remember to never drive through standing water or around barricades. If you come across first responders, like SCDOT crews, slow down and give them room to work. SCDOT encourages anyone with an issue on a state-maintained roadway to call us directly at 855-467-2368.3:05 p.m. updateThe city of Mauldin, South Carolina announced trash pickup has been canceled for Friday, Sept. 27, for the safety of both city employees and the public. A makeup day has been scheduled for Monday, Sept. 30. City officials encourage residents to report any downed power lines or trees to the Mauldin Police Department non-emergency line at (864) 289-8900, option 3.3:00 p.m. updateOconee County, South Carolina activated the Emergency Operations Center to mitigate impact of Helene. Officials said residents are encouraged to tune their radios to the local Emergency Alert System (EAS) station, WFBC 93.7 FM, for information as the storm continues to track northward. Residents may contact the Emergency Operations Center with questions or concerns at (864) 364-5911.2:45 p.m. updateHaywood County, North Carolina is opening an emergency shelter at 3 p.m. at the Armory at 235 Armory Drive in Clyde in response to Helene. Officials said if you have medication, oxygen, or other medical necessities, please bring them with you. Residents are expected to enter in the building where the Red Cross trailer is. If residents have pets, they must be crated and have a collar/leash with proper tags. Pet owners are expected to bring food and water bowls, food/treats, and cleaning items such as litter, pet waste bags, etc.1:40 p.m. update1:30 p.m. update1 p.m. update: South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster talks about Helene preparations and impacts:12:40 p.m. update from Anderson County: 12:40 p.m. update from Western North Carolina: 12:40: p.m.: Homeless shelter opens in Greenville due to storm12:35 p.m. update:”Due to severe weather from Hurricane Helene forecasted in our area, Biltmore Estate will be closed from 12 p.m. on Thursday, September 26, until Saturday, September 28.”The safety of our guests and employees is our top priority and we are actively monitoring this evolving situation.”12:20 p.m. update:Watch full news conference from North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper below: 12:15 p.m. update”The City of Pickens will open the Cheri Anthony Recreation Center at 545 Sangamo Road at 5 pm today for those in mobile homes and low-lying areas prone to flash flooding and damage from high winds. Bring all medications and personal supplies, bedrolls, flash lights, etc. to make your stay more comfortable. There will be room for portable cribs and playpens for those who with to bring them. “The City has a robust emergency response plan in place to address blocked roads and debris issues as they arise. Issues will be cleared as quickly as possible. IF YOU NEED TO REPORT DOWNED TREES, BLOCKED ROADS, FLOODING OR SIMILAR ISSUES THROUGH THE STORM PLEASE CALL 864-777-9500.”If you experience an emergency need for rescue or medical assistance, please dial 911.”12 p.m. update11 a.m. update: Traffic moving again after reported tree down on Interstate 85 northbound near mile-marker 21. 11 a.m. update: North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper will speak at 11 a.m. about Helene: Watch live here. 9:25 a.m. updateNorth Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper will speak at 11 a.m. about Helene: Watch live here. 9:15 a.m. update:”The South Carolina Emergency Management Division has elevated the state’s readiness and response to Operating Condition Level Two, or OPCON 2, as Hurricane Helene approaches South Carolina. This decision follows Governor Henry McMaster’s declaration of a State of Emergency, which activates state emergency plans. This allows agencies to coordinate resources more effectively and respond swiftly to requests for assistance from county emergency managers. “People are encouraged to stay updated by following official forecasts from the National Hurricane Center, local media, and public safety agencies’ social media accounts for the latest information.”SCEMD has several resources available for people to prepare for hurricanes and tropical storms, including the state’s online interactive hurricane guide at hurricane.sc.”9 a.m. update: South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced today that the state’s law against price gouging is now in effect since Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency because of Hurricane Helene.Read more here. 8:45 a.m. update: Chief Meteorologist Chris Justus live on Facebook 8:30 a.m. update: Power outages begin across the area.Duke Energy: Check on outages | Report outages Laurens Electric: Check on outages | Report outagesBroad River Electric: Check outages | Report outagesGreer Commission of Public Works: Report outages8:15 a.m. update8 a.m. update:Car stalls in Taylors (Greenville County): This is on Wood River Way off Wade Hampton.6:45 a.m. update on conditions in Anderson and Greenville counties: North Carolina Highway 106 detours are as follows:NC 106 North detour for cars: Take NC 106 South to GA 246 West, then to US 23-441. Turn right onto US 23-441 North and follow for 12.9 miles. Then, take the ramp to US 23 North/US 64 East/US 441 North Bypass and follow to exit 69. Turn right onto US 64 East/NC 28 South and follow 16.7 miles to Highlands.NC 106 South detour for cars: In Highlands, take US 64 West/NC 28 North to Franklin and follow for 16.8 miles. Turn left onto the ramp for US 23 South/US 441 South Bypass and follow to exit 67A. Take the 67A ramp onto US 23-441 South and follow for 13.1 miles to GA 246. Turn left onto GA 246 and follow to NC 106 North.NC 106 North detour for trucks: Take NC 106 South to GA 246 West, then to US 23-441. Turn right onto US 23-441 North and follow for 12.9 miles. Then, take the ramp to US 23 North/US 64 East/US 441 North Bypass and follow for 16.9 miles to NC 116. Follow NC 116 North for 4.1 miles to NC 107. Turn right onto NC 107 South and follow for 24.7 miles to US 64. Turn right onto US 64 West and follow to Highlands.For NC 106 South detour for trucks: In Highlands, take US 64 East and follow to NC 107 in Cashiers. Turn left onto NC 107 South and follow for 24.7 miles to NC 116. Turn left onto NC 116 South and follow for 4.1 miles to US 23-441. Turn right onto US 23-441 North and follow for ½ mile to U-turn location. Make a U-turn onto US 23-441 South and follow for 17.4 miles to exit 67A. Take exit 67A to continue on US 23-441 South and follow for 13.1 miles to GA 246. Turn left onto GA 246 and follow to NC 106 North.

GREENVILLE, S.C. —

Hurricane Helene is bringing heavy rain and gusty winds to the Carolinas.

Here you will find updates throughout the day and night on how it’s impacting the Carolinas and Georgia.

>>For the very latest forecast, track, and more, click here.

3:20 a.m.

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a flash flood warning for Henderson County, Polk County and Transylvania County in western North Carolina until 8:15 a.m.

Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 6 and 9 inches of rain have fallen. Significant flooding appears likely across much of the warned area, with numerous road closures and water rescues likely, damage to even well-built structures, and standing in low-lying areas.

3:10 a.m.

Thousands of power outages are being reported across our area. At least 11,000 in across the Upstate and 20,000 in Western North Carolina. Keep track of outages here.

2:40 a.m. update:

The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has extended the flash flood warning for Henderson County in western North Carolina until 6 a.m. Moderate to heavy rain continues to move across the area where between 4 and 7 inches of rain has fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 1 to 2 inches in 1 hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.

2 a.m. update:

Greer police say that due to flooding, East Suber Road at Sweetbriar Court will be closed until further notice.

1:30 a.m. update:

Flash flood warning issued for McDowell County in western North Carolina until 4:45 a.m. Friday. As of 1:33 a.m. persistent moderate to heavy rainfall today has resulted in between 4 and 7 inches of additional rainfall across the area. A band of moderate to at times heavy rain will move into the area with rainfall rates of 1 to 2 inches around 2:30 a.m.

1:15 a.m. update:

Flash flood warning issued for Henderson County in western North Carolina until 3 a.m.
At 1:12 a.m., moderate to heavy rain continues to move across the area where between 4 and 7 inches of rain has fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 1 to 2 inches in 1 hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area. Life-threatening flash flooding of creeks and streams, low-water crossings, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses is expected.

12:20 a.m. update:

Duke Energy reports about 1,000 customers without power in Greenville County.

11:40 p.m. update:

The Henderson County Sheriff’s Office announced a flash flood advisory is in effect until 1:30 a.m. Friday as moderate to heavy rain continues throughout the county. Deputies said life-threatening flash flooding is near creeks and streams, low-water crossings, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses.

11:00 p.m. update:

North Carolina Red Cross announce additional shelters have been opened in Buncombe County.

The Red Cross shelter located at First Baptist Swannanoa remains open for those affected by severe weather in the Asheville area, and a second shelter at Trinity Baptist Church has been opened.

Additionally, disaster teams are working closely with emergency management officials and several other community partners to offer and support additional shelter needs, aid, and recovery assistance where needed.

10:45 p.m. update:

Officials in Jeff Davis County, Georgia confirm two people have died due to impacts from Hurricane Helene. Jeff Davis County Emergency Management said their trailer was lifted off its foundation and thrown into a nearby peanut field. The incident happened on Highway 19 four miles out of Lumber City. More on the story here.

10:40 p.m. update:

The Oconee County Sheriff’s Office reported that the Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative has been notified of a scam targeting its customers ahead of Hurricane Helene. A customer reported receiving a phone call from an unauthorized party demanding partial payment to avoid service disconnection.

According to officials, if you receive a call pressuring you for payment or personal information, hang up and call us at (800) 240-3400. If you feel threatened, contact local law enforcement.

The Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative will never ask for payment in this manner. The company stated if we contact you, our representatives will verify the call by providing information only you and the company would know.

10:30 p.m. update:

Upstate counties make final preparations before Hurricane Helene arrives.

10:10 p.m. update:

All Greenville County Government buildings will have a delayed opening at 10:00 a.m. Friday.

9:50 p.m. update:

Spartanburg Police Department announced several roads are closed due to standing water including; the underpass at Franklin and Fairgrounds, W.O. Ezell Blvd near Chester Street, Howard Street from Fairgrounds to California Avenue.

9:30 p.m. update:

Greenville Police Department report Cleveland Park is currently closed until further notice as water levels rise.

9:00 p.m. update:

The National Weather Service issued a Tornado Watch for the following counties: Greenwood, Laurens and Union until 8 a.m. Friday.

8:30 p.m. update:

Henderson County Sheriff’s Office said significant flooding is expected along the French Broad River Valley. Impacts are expected to exceed those from the 2004 storms Francis & Ivan and potentially exceed the Flood of 1916. Residents within the 500-year floodplain in Etowah, Mills River and Fletcher should make plans to evacuate as the river is expected to continue to rise over the next 24 hours and break the all-time water levels record by over 10 feet.

For more information, click here.

8:20 p.m. update:

Yancey County Sheriff’s Office announced a curfew will be in effect from 10 p.m. Thursday until 7 a.m. Friday. During this time, non-essential travel is restricted. Deputies said, “Please stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary to ensure everyone’s safety as Tropical Storm Helene impacts our area.”

7:55 p.m. update:

The city of Easley, South Carolina announced due to severe weather, administrative offices at the Easley Police Department and the City of Easley Court will be closed Friday.

7:50 p.m. update:

The North Carolina Department of Transportation closed NC 106 in both directions near the Blue Valley Overlook, southeast of Highlands. NCDOT said heavy rains caused a fill slope failure, impacting the roadway about seven miles from the Georgia border.

A detour has been determined for both trucks and other vehicles until the road is deemed safe to open. Detour information can found at the bottom of this story.

7:30 p.m. update:

Duke Energy urges caution as Helene increases flood risks in the Carolinas, particularly along the Catawba-Wateree River Basin. Officials said lake levels are expected to rise sharply as heavy rains from Helene add to the many inches of rain the region already received this week.

6:15 p.m. update:

Areas in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia are flooding as Helene makes its way north.

6:00 p.m. update:

Henderson County, North Carolina announced Apple Country Public Transit will continue service for Route 1 and Route 3 until their scheduled final runs on Thursday, September 26, 2024. The transit system will not run any service on Friday.

5:15 p.m. update:

Pickens County declares state of emergency as heavy rainfall and wind gusts up to 60 miles per hour is expected Thursday evening into Friday morning. Officials advise the public to avoid travel if at all possible. Pickens County offices, including the landfill, will delay opening Friday until 12 p.m. All Pickens County recycle centers will remain closed all day Friday and resume normal hours of operation on Saturday.

5:10 p.m. update:

The Easley Police Department reports significant flash flooding in some areas throughout the city. Officers urge drivers to be aware of the following streets that typically flood quickly under extreme weather conditions.

• Edgemont Avenue
• Old Stagecoach Road
• McBee Avenue at Anzio Street
• Highland Park Court
• Pendleton Street
• McAlister Road
• Fleetwood Drive
• Hamilton Street
• Pope Field Road

4:45 p.m. update:

Oconee County, South Carolina officials announced a temporary hurricane shelter will open its doors at 6 p.m., Thursday. The shelter is located at the College Street Baptist Church, 401 S. College Street, Walhalla, South Carolina. The shelter is open for men, women and children (no pets) in Oconee County seeking refuge from severe weather related to Helene. The Red Cross will provide cots and blankets in the shelter.

For additional information regarding the shelter, the public should contact (864) 364-5911.

4:35 p.m. update:

American Red Cross announces the opening of two shelters in the Upstate for individuals and families who need assistance. The Red Cross is working closely with emergency management and government officials in the impacted areas. The two shelters that the Red Cross is opening can be found at:

• 160 Ivory Key Rd. Saluda, SC 29138 (Saluda High School). Opening at 8 p.m.
• 219 S Fishtrap Rd, Greenville, SC 29611 (Crosswell First Baptist Church)

4:30 p.m. update:

Some areas in Hendersonville, North Carolina are flooding including Spartanburg Highway.

4:05 p.m. update:

“North Carolina Attorney General Josh Stein today announced that the state’s price gouging law is in effect for Hurricane Helene. North Carolina’s law against price gouging, or charging too much in times of a crisis, goes into effect when the governor or the legislature declares a state of emergency. In some cases, businesses and industries that are heavily impacted by the incident causing the state of emergency have a reasonable need to increase prices in order to resupply, but they should disclose these increases so people can make informed purchasing decisions. Businesses cannot, however, unreasonably raise the price of goods or services to profit from a state of emergency.

“Following the storm, please report potential price gouging by calling 1-877-5-NO-SCAM or by filing a complaint at https://ncdoj.gov/pricegouging.”

4 p.m. update:

“The American Red Cross has opened a shelter at Crosswell Baptist Church, 219 S. Fishtrap Rd, Greenville, SC 29611 for those along the Saluda River who may need to evacuate their homes due to the rising water.

“According to the National Weather Service, the Saluda River near Highway 123 is forecast to rise higher than the February 2020 storm that did force some displacement. This shelter would serve those from Greenville and Pickens Counties.

“Some roads that may be impacted include but not limited to, Riverview Drive, Knollview Drive, Riverview Circle, and Sentell Court

“The American Red Cross would be your point of contact for any activities at the shelter. Greenville County and Greenville County Emergency Management are sharing this message to alert the media and the public of this resource that the Red Cross is providing.”

3:45 p.m. update:

The Chattooga River at Bull Sluice in Mountain Rest, South Carolina, is flooding from widespread rain.

3:25 p.m. update:

The South Carolina Department of Transportation has 2,300 personnel mobilized and working around the clock to respond to impacts from Hurricane Helene.

The potential for rain, high winds, and risk of tornadoes means the possibility of debris and flooding impacting roadways. SCDOT encourages drivers to avoid travel if possible, especially after dark. SCDOT encourages drivers to avoid travel. If you have to be out, remember to never drive through standing water or around barricades.

If you come across first responders, like SCDOT crews, slow down and give them room to work. SCDOT encourages anyone with an issue on a state-maintained roadway to call us directly at 855-467-2368.

3:05 p.m. update

The city of Mauldin, South Carolina announced trash pickup has been canceled for Friday, Sept. 27, for the safety of both city employees and the public. A makeup day has been scheduled for Monday, Sept. 30.

City officials encourage residents to report any downed power lines or trees to the Mauldin Police Department non-emergency line at (864) 289-8900, option 3.

3:00 p.m. update

Oconee County, South Carolina activated the Emergency Operations Center to mitigate impact of Helene. Officials said residents are encouraged to tune their radios to the local Emergency Alert System (EAS) station, WFBC 93.7 FM, for information as the storm continues to track northward. Residents may contact the Emergency Operations Center with questions or concerns at (864) 364-5911.

2:45 p.m. update

Haywood County, North Carolina is opening an emergency shelter at 3 p.m. at the Armory at 235 Armory Drive in Clyde in response to Helene. Officials said if you have medication, oxygen, or other medical necessities, please bring them with you. Residents are expected to enter in the building where the Red Cross trailer is. If residents have pets, they must be crated and have a collar/leash with proper tags. Pet owners are expected to bring food and water bowls, food/treats, and cleaning items such as litter, pet waste bags, etc.

1:40 p.m. update

1:30 p.m. update

1 p.m. update:

South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster talks about Helene preparations and impacts:

12:40 p.m. update from Anderson County:

12:40 p.m. update from Western North Carolina:

12:40: p.m.: Homeless shelter opens in Greenville due to storm

12:35 p.m. update:

“Due to severe weather from Hurricane Helene forecasted in our area, Biltmore Estate will be closed from 12 p.m. on Thursday, September 26, until Saturday, September 28.

“The safety of our guests and employees is our top priority and we are actively monitoring this evolving situation.”

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12:20 p.m. update:

Watch full news conference from North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper below:

12:15 p.m. update

“The City of Pickens will open the Cheri Anthony Recreation Center at 545 Sangamo Road at 5 pm today for those in mobile homes and low-lying areas prone to flash flooding and damage from high winds. Bring all medications and personal supplies, bedrolls, flash lights, etc. to make your stay more comfortable. There will be room for portable cribs and playpens for those who with to bring them.

“The City has a robust emergency response plan in place to address blocked roads and debris issues as they arise. Issues will be cleared as quickly as possible. IF YOU NEED TO REPORT DOWNED TREES, BLOCKED ROADS, FLOODING OR SIMILAR ISSUES THROUGH THE STORM PLEASE CALL 864-777-9500.

“If you experience an emergency need for rescue or medical assistance, please dial 911.”

12 p.m. update

11 a.m. update:

Traffic moving again after reported tree down on Interstate 85 northbound near mile-marker 21.

11 a.m. update:

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper will speak at 11 a.m. about Helene: Watch live here.

9:25 a.m. update

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper will speak at 11 a.m. about Helene: Watch live here.

9:15 a.m. update:

“The South Carolina Emergency Management Division has elevated the state’s readiness and response to Operating Condition Level Two, or OPCON 2, as Hurricane Helene approaches South Carolina. This decision follows Governor Henry McMaster’s declaration of a State of Emergency, which activates state emergency plans. This allows agencies to coordinate resources more effectively and respond swiftly to requests for assistance from county emergency managers.

“People are encouraged to stay updated by following official forecasts from the National Hurricane Center, local media, and public safety agencies’ social media accounts for the latest information.

“SCEMD has several resources available for people to prepare for hurricanes and tropical storms, including the state’s online interactive hurricane guide at hurricane.sc.”

9 a.m. update:

South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced today that the state’s law against price gouging is now in effect since Gov. Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency because of Hurricane Helene.

Read more here.

8:45 a.m. update: Chief Meteorologist Chris Justus live on Facebook

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8:30 a.m. update:

Power outages begin across the area.

8:15 a.m. update

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8 a.m. update:

Car stalls in Taylors (Greenville County): This is on Wood River Way off Wade Hampton.

6:45 a.m. update on conditions in Anderson and Greenville counties:

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North Carolina Highway 106 detours are as follows:

NC 106 North detour for cars: Take NC 106 South to GA 246 West, then to US 23-441. Turn right onto US 23-441 North and follow for 12.9 miles. Then, take the ramp to US 23 North/US 64 East/US 441 North Bypass and follow to exit 69. Turn right onto US 64 East/NC 28 South and follow 16.7 miles to Highlands.

NC 106 South detour for cars: In Highlands, take US 64 West/NC 28 North to Franklin and follow for 16.8 miles. Turn left onto the ramp for US 23 South/US 441 South Bypass and follow to exit 67A. Take the 67A ramp onto US 23-441 South and follow for 13.1 miles to GA 246. Turn left onto GA 246 and follow to NC 106 North.

NC 106 North detour for trucks: Take NC 106 South to GA 246 West, then to US 23-441. Turn right onto US 23-441 North and follow for 12.9 miles. Then, take the ramp to US 23 North/US 64 East/US 441 North Bypass and follow for 16.9 miles to NC 116. Follow NC 116 North for 4.1 miles to NC 107. Turn right onto NC 107 South and follow for 24.7 miles to US 64. Turn right onto US 64 West and follow to Highlands.

For NC 106 South detour for trucks: In Highlands, take US 64 East and follow to NC 107 in Cashiers. Turn left onto NC 107 South and follow for 24.7 miles to NC 116. Turn left onto NC 116 South and follow for 4.1 miles to US 23-441. Turn right onto US 23-441 North and follow for ½ mile to U-turn location. Make a U-turn onto US 23-441 South and follow for 17.4 miles to exit 67A. Take exit 67A to continue on US 23-441 South and follow for 13.1 miles to GA 246. Turn left onto GA 246 and follow to NC 106 North.