Beaufort County continues to coordinate with power utilities, SCDOT, SCEMD, and local emergency management officials to coordinate cleanup and recovery efforts after Hurricane Helene.

“I want to thank our residents for the resilience and compassion that we’ve seen through this storm. I’ve seen neighbors helping each other in clearing debris, sharing resources, and helping those without power. We extend our gratitude to all our emergency and first responders, utility workers, and public works crews who worked tirelessly through this event," expressed County Administrator Michael Moore. "Beaufort County will continue to support and coordinate response and cleanup efforts throughout the county. But as we begin to see our area return to a sense of normalcy, our hearts are heavy as we look to the hardest hit areas across the southeast. Several community groups are organizing donation drives for those in the worst-impacted areas, demonstrating the unique community spirit of Beaufort County.”

 Damage Reporting

The Beaufort County Assessor’s Office has set up a web form for real property owners to self-report structure damage from Hurricane Helene. This form is applicable to both Residential and Commercial property owners. If you have damage to a structure on your property, please report it to the Beaufort County Assessor’s Office by either using the form or calling at 843-255-2400. Staff members available to assist those calling in with damage. These damage reports help Beaufort County correctly assess and report damage to the state and other agencies.

Access Form Here

 Daufuskie Island

Beaufort County is continuing to coordinate with Dominion Energy on equipment staging and dock access to expedite the return of power. According to Dominion, this will be a multi-day restoration effort. A water distribution center has been set up at the First Union African Baptist Church, with operating hours of 8-9 a.m., 12-1 p.m., and 5-6 p.m.

For residential ferry riders, Beaufort County has worked with Lowcountry Ferry to provide an additional 100 pounds of included luggage and supplies to assist in cleanup and restocking efforts. This will begin tomorrow, October 2 and continue through Sunday, October 6, 2024. This equates to an allowance of 200 pounds of groceries and supplies per trip. We ask that riders alert Lowcountry Ferry when they book their ticket if they are making a large supply run so that any necessary accommodations can be arranged.

Beaufort County is planning to assist Daufuskie Island residents with cleanup efforts by conducting a single pass to pick up storm-generated vegetative debris on the public Right-of-Way. Island residents should begin moving any storm-generated vegetative debris in front of their homes on the public Right-of-Way. The open space at Francis Jones Park has been designated as a storm debris collection site for residents not on County or County-maintained roads. 

 County Storm Debris Disposal

Beaufort County will be working with SCDOT on a plan for increased debris removal and will announce information when the details have been finalized. In the meantime, County Convenience Centers are currently open for regular business hours and storm debris (vegetative) should be taken to these locations if possible. As a reminder, convenience centers are for residential trash and debris only.

 Local Resources for Community Assistance

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division has set up a toll-free hotline. Operators with the State’s Public Information Phone System are available 24 hours a day for as long as needed. Hurricane Helene Hotline: 866-246-0133.

United Way of the Lowcountry’s 2-1-1 HELPLINE is active for information and referrals for non-emergency assistance. Reach 2-1-1 by calling 2-1-1, texting 2-1-1-2-1-1, or visiting www.SC211.org.

If you need help with damage clean up following Hurricane Helene, call Crisis Cleanup at 844-965-1386. Volunteers may be able to assist with mucking out, cleaning trees, tarping roofs, and cleaning debris. All services are free, but service is not guaranteed.

HELP of Beaufort offers clothing assistance, family assistance, mobile meals, financial assistance and is a recognized FEMA disaster relief pantry for Beaufort County.

 News Updates and Information Resources

To receive news and updates from Beaufort County Government, sign up here.

Download the Everbridge app to receive up-to-date information on matters of public safety from the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office.

Follow the South Carolina Emergency Management Division here.

Follow the National Hurricane Center for more information and forecasts.

Remember, Hurricane Season runs through November 30. There is always a possibility that we will see more hurricane-related weather this year. Make plans and preparations for you and your family. Know your zone, download your hurricane guide, and stay prepared.