York County Struggles for Federal Aid After Storm Helene’s Impact

York County Faces Tough Times After Storm Helene

York County is currently grappling with the aftermath of storm Helene, a weather event that left many residents affected but currently lacks the significant damage needed to qualify for federal aid. In a video message released on social media, county emergency management director Chuck Haynes highlighted the situation, stating that as of Tuesday, the county did not meet the required thresholds for Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) assistance. Without these numbers, residents may miss out on vital help to recover from property damage.

Essential Figures for Aid

For those unfamiliar with how aid qualifications work, the county must present specific dollar amounts related to various damages caused by the storm. This includes both individual damages to homes and businesses and government costs linked to the storm. According to Haynes, these figures usually escalate into the millions of dollars, factoring in the number of buildings affected or destroyed. As it stands, Haynes remarked, “Right now we are not seeing enough numbers for that to happen.”

Comparing to Past Disasters

This isn’t the first time York County has faced such a challenge. Earlier this year, an April hailstorm struck southern Rock Hill, causing several million dollars in damages. However, even that event failed to meet FEMA requirements, leaving many households without the support they desperately needed.

Seeking Public Participation

County officials are not sitting back. They are actively seeking Helene property damage reports from the public. This effort is critical to ensure the county can develop adequate numbers that could push York County over the threshold for both governmental and individual aid. Greg Suskin, a county spokesman, emphasized how vital public reports would be in the ongoing assessment of the damage.

To facilitate public feedback, York County Emergency Management has set up a website where residents can report property damage and upload photographs from the storm. If the online approach isn’t your style, you can also reach out to emergency management by calling 803-326-2300 to request an official assessment of damaged property. Haynes indicated that these reports significantly aid in crafting requests to FEMA for individual assistance.

Political Support and Assistance Options

Local leaders are stepping up, too. South Carolina Representative Brandon Guffey stressed the urgency for residents to report any damages to York County officials. “Reporting the damage is crucial if we are to qualify,” he stated, encouraging community engagement in reporting efforts.

To provide some good news amidst the challenges, the Small Business Administration (SBA) approved low-interest loans for York County businesses, homeowners, and renters as of Tuesday. While details regarding the availability of these loans remain unclear, this option is a positive step forward for those needing financial help.

Storm Effects in Numbers

The storm itself was not a mild affair; winds exceeded 50 miles per hour, and some York County areas recorded as much as seven inches of rain. Tragically, the storm claimed the life of a Clover woman who was struck by a truck while clearing debris from a road. Additionally, a man in Rock Hill required rescue after a tree crashed into his home.

In terms of power outages, most residents regained electricity by Tuesday, although around 750 customers from Duke Energy and York Electric Cooperative were still without power. This was a significant reduction from nearly 30,000 during the height of the storm.

School and Community Updates

Most schools in the Rock Hill region reopened on Monday or Tuesday, though York school district had to cancel Monday classes again due to power issues at two of its buildings. By Tuesday afternoon, power was restored, and classes are set to resume Wednesday.

Looking Ahead

As York County continues its recovery process from storm Helene, many residents might find themselves in need of assistance. With community awareness and cooperation in reporting damage, the hope remains alive that the county can reach the figures necessary for federal help. This is a crucial moment where every report counts, and residents are encouraged to take action for the benefit of their community.