Storm Damage Cleanup

FRIDAY WEATHER

Police advises people to stay off the roads. Power is out at the Haywood Mall.  The worst of the rain is over, but the wind will continue to roar through. Massive river swelling is a factor.

Even when the sun comes out, the stout winds will batter trees.  While you’re out cleaning up debris in your yard, be careful of falling branches and toss-up debris, buoyed by wind and water.

Wind-damage reports are widespread. The Conestee Dam is 130 years old and is vulnerable to damage and flooding. Transformers flashed and blacked out. Down trees are common.

There are more than 180 tragic incidents on secondary roads and 20 on main roads, authorities report.

One-fourth of Anderson is without power, some 30,000 people. Flickering lights are insecure and may go out any time.

There are more than 200,000 in Greenville County without power today. Duke, 10,000 workmen strong, is working feverishly to restore power as quickly as possible, Duke spokesman said.

Unity Park and other flood zones are vulnerable. The winds are blasting through. Trees are battered. Rivers swell and breach roadways, making authorities close streets.

Wisely, residents are staying indoors. Schools and businesses are closed.  State officials stress do not venture outdoors.

Even after rain stops, rivers will continue to swell for two or three days. So remain on the lookout for flooding across low-lying roads and bridges.

Near 70 mph winds were reported in Anderson County. The eye of the storm sweeps through Anderson and west of Greenville.

Mandate evacuation was ordered for sections of Asheville, N. C.

More than 300,000 are without power in the Carolinas.