644 WTUS82 KCAE 271818 HLSCAE GAZ040-063>065-077-SCZ016-018-020>022-025>031-035-037-038-041-115-116-135>137-272130- Tropical Depression Helene Local Statement Intermediate Advisory Number 17A National Weather Service Columbia SC AL092024 218 PM EDT Fri Sep 27 2024 This product covers the Midlands of central South Carolina and east central Georgia CSRA **Helene weakens to a tropical depression and continues to move away from the region.** NEW INFORMATION --------------- * CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - All watches and warnings have been canceled * CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - None * STORM INFORMATION: - About 270 miles northwest of Columbia SC - 36.6N 84.6W - Storm Intensity 35 mph - Movement North-northwest or 330 degrees at 28 mph SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------ Helene has weakened to a tropical depression and continues to move away from the region. Rainfall has ended but gusty winds will continue through the afternoon before diminishing this evening. Widespread significant river flooding is expected over the next several days. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ----------------- * WIND: Little to no additional wind impacts expected. - Community officials are now assessing the extent of actual wind impacts accordingly. - Emergency work crews are restoring essential community infrastructure as necessary. - If you have an emergency dial 9 1 1. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS ---------------------------------- * OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: If your home or shelter was damaged, be alert to the smell of gas leaks and be cautious around electrical wiring, broken glass, jagged metal and wood, and protruding nails and screws. Check on your neighbors. If necessary, help them connect with their points of contact. If using a generator, avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by following instructions provided by the manufacturer. Operate your generator in a well-ventilated space outside of your living area and away from open doors and windows. Be alert for any lingering wind gusts which could take down weakened trees and/or power lines, collapse damaged structures, or cause flying debris. Be alert for potential flooding from rising rivers and streams which may have yet to crest. Remain informed of the latest river forecasts and heed any flood watches and warnings. Be alert for flooded roads which could be compromised or littered with debris. Avoid travel until water levels subside and roads have been cleared. Do not drive through places where flood waters cover the road. Turn around, don't drown! * ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION: - For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov - For information from the state of South Carolina see scemd.org - For information from the state of Georgia see gema.ga.gov NEXT UPDATE ----------- As it pertains to this event...this will be the last local statement issued by the National Weather Service in Columbia SC regarding the effects of tropical cyclone hazards upon the area. $$