Gov. Henry McMaster requests Expedited Disaster Declaration for Hurricane Helene

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) – Governor Henry McMaster has formally requested an Expedited Major Presidential Disaster Declaration to support state and local recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene. If granted, the declaration would activate FEMA’s Individual Assistance Program to help residents in multiple South Carolina counties affected by the storm.

The 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 aid to residents who suffered uninsured property damage from the hurricane. Assistance may also cover other critical needs on a case-by-case basis.

In addition, the request seeks coverage under categories A, B, and F of FEMA’s Public Assistance Program for state and local government agencies, as well as eligible nonprofit organizations. This program would provide financial reimbursement for emergency response and recovery costs in counties including Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, and several others. The federal government would cover 75% of the costs, with the remaining 25% to be allocated later.

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

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