More than 60 homes damaged in coastal SC amid Tropical Storm Debby, SCEMD director says

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – More than 60 homes across three Lowcountry counties suffered damage as Tropical Storm Debby moved along the South Carolina coastline.

Debby began impacting the state late Sunday night with the heaviest rain and flooding happening throughout the day Tuesday.

Meteorologists say the slow-moving tropical storm is likely to make a second landfall somewhere between northern Charleston County and Georgetown County early Thursday morning. Additional rainfall, gusty winds, and flooding are anticipated.

Kim Stenson, the state’s emergency management director, said preliminary damage estimates from Berkeley, Charleston, and Colleton revealed 64 homes had damage with a majority in Colleton County. Stenson said one home with destroyed in Colleton and 15 others had major damage.

Berkeley, Colleton, and Horry counties have reported a total of six businesses with some level of damage. Totals could increase as Debby moves through the region.

“Infrastructure damage right now is currently limited to road damage due to rain and floodwater,” said Stenson. “Damage assessments are being compiled.”

Stenson urged people to stay away from flooded areas and to avoid taking on unnecessary risks.

He said one of the most effective ways the public can assist is by reporting any storm damage through the South Carolina Emergency Manager mobile app. “It’s not just about documenting losses, but it’s also helping us direct response and resources to wherever they might be needed,” said Stenson. “Your reports are vital to our recovery efforts.”

Dorchester County officials asked that people report residential and business structural and flood damage from Tropical Storm Debby through an online form or by calling their call center at 843-832-0393. You should include specific information about the damage.

County officials said the information received will help damage assessment teams evaluate the extent of the storm’s impact and expedite the cleanup and recovery process.

North Charleston also asked residents to report any structural damage or water intrusion through an online reporting page. “City inspectors will visit affected properties to document damage and conduct life safety inspections,” the city said. Inspectors will approach homes to perform a thorough evaluation.

Charleston County will begin structural damage assessments on Thursday afternoon. Residents with damage can provide information online.