Gov. Henry McMaster is requesting an expedited disaster declaration for Hurricane Helene

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) – Governor Henry McMaster has officially requested an expedited presidential major disaster declaration to support state and local recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. If approved, the declaration would activate FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program to help residents in several South Carolina counties affected by the storm.

Counties eligible for assistance include Aiken, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Cherokee, Chesterfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Lexington, Oconee, Newberry, Pickens, Saluda and Spartanburg. The FEMA Individual Assistance Program provides direct financial assistance to residents who suffered uninsured property damage from the hurricane. In individual cases, support can also cover other critical needs.

Additionally, the application seeks coverage under Categories A, B, and F of the FEMA Public Assistance Program for state and local government agencies and eligible nonprofit organizations. This program would provide financial reimbursement for emergency response and recovery costs in counties such as Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell and several others. The federal government would cover 75% of the costs, the remaining 25% would be passed on later.

Governor McMaster’s request also includes FEMA Hazard Mitigation Program grants to reduce the impact of future disasters.

This is an initial request, additional counties may be added based on future assessments. If approved, the declaration would accelerate federal aid to communities across South Carolina.

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