Hurricane Helene Brings Renewed Focus on Safety
At Stewart Law Offices, we understand the profound impact hurricanes can have on our communities. Hurricane Helene, which struck in late September 2024, was the deadliest hurricane to hit the continental United States since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Across six states, the storm claimed at least 250 lives (including both direct and indirect fatalities). North Carolina suffered the greatest loss, with 107 confirmed fatalities, the deadliest storm event in the state’s recorded history. South Carolina recorded 50 deaths. Combined damage estimates for North Carolina alone exceeded $59 billion (with some statewide assessments reaching approximately $59.6 billion).
We want to ensure that every resident of the Carolinas is equipped with the knowledge and resources to protect themselves and their families before the next major storm.
What Are the Safety Precautions for a Hurricane?
The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 to November 30, with peak activity typically occurring between mid-August and mid-October. Although hurricanes like Helene primarily strike coastal areas, they can also bring dangerous conditions inland, affecting areas far from the shoreline.
Prepare for a Hurricane:
According to Ready.gov, it’s crucial to act when a hurricane is approaching. Here are the steps to take as the hurricane approaches your area:
- 36 hours away – Restock your emergency kit and plan communication strategies if the power goes out.
- 18 to 36 hours away – Start securing your home by covering windows.
- 6 to 18 hours away – Fully charge cell phones and other devices.
- 6 hours away – Close storm shutters and stay indoors, away from windows.
Given Helene’s impact on inland areas like Rock Hill, Columbia, and Charlotte, it’s clear that no region is immune to damage. Taking steps early can reduce risks.
Protecting Your Family, Pets, and Home
The American Red Cross recommends discussing emergency plans with your family, keeping updated with NOAA radio broadcasts, and creating emergency kits for pets. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration radio station has a frequency of the following frequencies in our communities:
- Rock Hill – 162.425 MHz
- Columbia – 162.400 MHz
- Beaufort – 162.450 MHz
- Charlotte – 162.475 MHz
Preparing your home by securing windows and removing outdoor objects that could be picked up by high winds is essential.
Helene’s winds turned patio furniture into projectiles and brought dangerous floodwaters to communities across North and South Carolina. Protecting your home now can prevent serious damage later.
How to Stay Safe During a Hurricane
During a hurricane, follow these tips to stay safe:
- Prepare your emergency kit – Stock up on food, water, and first-aid supplies for at least three days. Ensure you have enough water for hygiene purposes by filling sinks and bathtubs.
- Safeguard important documents – Pack insurance policies, photos, and legal documents in waterproof containers.
- Evacuate when needed – Know your evacuation routes. Be prepared to leave if instructed.
- Keep pets safe – Make sure you have a plan for your pets, including carriers, food, and medical records.
During the Storm
As we saw with Hurricane Helene, riding out the storm can be dangerous if proper precautions aren’t taken. Stay inside in a windowless room, listen to emergency broadcasts, and avoid going outside until the storm has fully passed. Floodwaters are deceptive and deadly; just six inches of moving water can knock an adult off their feet, and twelve inches can carry away a vehicle. Never attempt to walk or drive through floodwater under any circumstances.
After the Storm
Once the storm has passed, the dangers don’t stop. Take extra care when cleaning up debris or handling damaged power lines. In the aftermath of Helene, millions across the Carolinas lost power, thousands of homes were destroyed or condemned, and hundreds of roads remained closed for months. Here are the steps to take:
- Avoid floodwaters, as they can be contaminated or conceal dangerous debris.
- Document damage to your home for insurance purposes.
- Stay in communication with family through texts or social media, as phone lines may be overloaded.
- Contact a licensed professional for any repairs or inspections of your property.
Additionally, the CDC recommends taking care of your emotional health following a disaster. It is completely normal to experience fear, anxiety, grief, or stress in the aftermath of a hurricane. If you or a family member needs support, SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline is available 24/7 by calling or texting 1-800-985-5990.
Stewart Law Offices is Here to Help
With offices in Rock Hill, Columbia, Spartanburg, Beaufort, Lexington, and Charlotte, Stewart Law Offices is here for our North and South Carolina communities. The damage from Hurricane Helene highlights the importance of being prepared. We urge you to take the necessary steps to stay safe this hurricane season.