Patrick Cobb

Here comes another one. Michael is now a Category 2 Hurricane heading for the Florida panhandle. The projected storm path takes the center of the storm right through the Midlands in South Carolina. Strong winds and a few inches of rain are currently predicted to hit the Midlands on Thursday. There is a risk for some isolated tornadoes to develop in the Midlands region.

The storm may have passed, but the danger has not. The Pee Dee region has already started to flood and flooding is expected to worsen over the next week. If you need to drive in this region, AARP urges you to be safe.

Some may seek to take advantage of those seeking help with repairs in the aftermath of the storm and floods.

Hurricane/Tropical Storm Florence has come and gone. Thankfully most of South Carolina was spared from the devastation. However, some of our neighbors were not so lucky. Florence has caused 24 deaths to date, and as of early Monday morning, over 500,000 people in the affected region were without power. You've likely heard that record rainfall caused mass flooding in North Carolina and in the coming weeks is expected to create a high potential for river flooding in the Pee Dee region. It might affect places like Horry, Georgetown, Dillon and Marion counties.

Hurricane Florence is still a potentially dangerous storm. If you are in an evacuation zone and need shelter, SCEMD has a list of available shelters here. This list includes information about which shelters are pet friendly. There are currently four pet friendly shelters and they are donated on the page with a paw print. All shelters accept service animals.

When the time comes to start cleaning up the mess left behind by severe flooding, take added steps to protect your health and safety.

A portable or “whole-house” electrical generator can be a big help after a hurricane. But make sure you follow the safety precautions.

From ABLE South Carolina:

When you’re a caregiver, it’s crucial to be ready for emergencies. Especially with the threat of Hurricane Florence now is the time to think about preparing your loved ones for natural disasters.

The Public Service Commission has scheduled three night public hearings in regards to the pending SCE&G permanent rate reduction case. The hearings are open to the public and you can sign up to testify. AARP South Carolina staff and volunteers will be on site to greet you and answer any questions you may have.