Palmetto State News

Gov. Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency in South Carolina ahead of Hurricane Helene's expected landfall. The governor's order activates the state's Emergency Operations Plan and instructs the South Carolina Emergency Management Division to work with relevant agencies to prepare for potential requests from local officials and county emergency management leaders.

Hurricane Helene is anticipated to become a major hurricane before reaching Florida’s Big Bend on Thursday. While South Carolina may not face the storm's full impact, there is potential for tornadoes and flooding that could disrupt businesses.

Businesses are advised to review or create disaster plans promptly. Key steps include understanding risks such as flooding or other natural hazards, ensuring adequate insurance coverage, including business interruption insurance, and obtaining flood insurance. Businesses should also document assets through photographs and videos stored securely online or in waterproof containers.

An emergency response plan should be developed with designated evacuation routes and meeting places, along with accessible emergency phone numbers. A communications plan is crucial; appoint someone as a contact person for employees, customers, and vendors. Backup systems for business records are recommended, both electronically via cloud storage and physically in secure locations.

Additionally, creating a disaster kit containing essentials like flashlights, radios, batteries, first-aid supplies, non-perishable food, bottled water, tools, plastic sheeting, and garbage bags is advised. Employees should also be encouraged to prepare personal disaster kits.