COLUMBIA– September 2, 2016, 5:15 p.m. – The strong winds and continued rainfall across the majority of the state have resulted in numerous closures and delays.  The South Carolina Emergency Operations Center will continue to provide response assistance until Hermine or its effects are no longer a threat to South Carolina.
 
As of 5:15 p.m., Friday, September 2, 2016:
 
–  According to County Emergency Managers, more than twenty-one counties report they are actively monitoring the storm or engaged in response activities.
 
– More than 44,000 power outages have been reported statewide.
 
–  SCEMD has made one delivery of 1000 sandbags to Darlington County Emergency Management at the County’s request. 
 
– State and county government offices in 17 counties have either closed or dismissed staff early in anticipation of the storm.
 
–  The S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control issued a message asking that owners monitor their dams and lower water levels accordingly.
 
–  Currently two shelters are open in Williamsburg County and sixteen are on standby across the state ready to be open should they be needed. The standby shelters are being run by the Community Emergency Response Team and provide a safe place to stay with blankets, cots and other services for individuals who have been displaced by the storm.  Currently, no one has used these shelters but they are available should the need arise.
 
– Citizens should be aware of potential flash flooding.  If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move to higher ground.  Do not wait to be told to move. 
 
– Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall.  If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving.  Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you. 
 
–  Do not drive into flooded areas.  Do not drive around barricades posted at or near flooded streets.  If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can move safely.  You and the vehicle could be quickly swept away.  One foot of water can cause your car to float off the roadway.
 
–  Don’t enter a basement or any room if water covers electrical outlets or if cords are submerged.  If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises – get out!  Stay out of water that may have electrical currents in it!