Greenville County Helene Update: Recovery Efforts, Power Outages, and Open Stores

Councilman Blount’s Newsletter 9-29-24

Firstly, I know you’ve been receiving more updates than usual, but I want to make sure that, during this recovery from Tropical Storm Helene, you have the most current and important information. As our county continues to grapple with the effects of the storm, I want to share details from a joint press conference that was just released, with our County Chairman Dan Tripp, Sheriff Hobart Lewis, EMS Director Tom Blackwell, Greenville County Emergency Management Director Jessica Stumpf, along with others. I’m thankful that these leaders are addressing the public directly and providing the critical information we need to move forward. Additionally, we can expect an update from Governor Henry McMaster, who is scheduled to be on the ground here around 4 p.m. today.

Watch the press conference from the Facebook page of Journalist Jackson Gosnell here: Emergency Management Press Conference

Key Points from the Greenville County Emergency Operations Center Briefing

Stay Home and Stay Safe

Sheriff Lewis and Emergency Management Director Jessica Stumpf are asking residents to stay home unless absolutely necessary. Their main message is to let utility workers and tree crews do their jobs without interference. “There is no need to panic,” Sheriff Lewis said. “It is going to require sacrifice, and we need the community’s help with that.” Checking on your neighbors, especially those who are vulnerable, is encouraged, but please avoid going out unless it’s essential.

Avoid Hoarding Behavior

Sheriff Lewis stressed that the Upstate is not experiencing food or fuel shortages. Supply routes are open, and gas stations are being refueled daily. He urged residents to avoid hoarding fuel or groceries to ensure everyone in the community has access to what they need. Let’s all do our part by taking only what is necessary and leaving the rest for others.

911 for Emergencies Only

EMS Director Tom Blackwell reported an overwhelming number of emergency calls—over 2,100 in the past three days alone. He emphasized that 911 should be used only for life-threatening emergencies. For non-emergency situations, Greenville County Emergency Management has opened a dedicated phone line at 864-467-3428. Please use this number for any non-critical needs.

No Looting Reported; Be Aware of Scams

Sheriff Lewis reassured the public that there have been no reports of looting in Greenville County. However, he warned about post-disaster scams, where unqualified service providers may solicit residents, often asking for cash upfront. This is a common issue following major storms, so please be cautious, especially when hiring help for repairs. Older residents are often targeted, so check in with elderly neighbors and help them avoid falling victim to these scams.

Medical Device Charging

For those who rely on medical devices that require electricity, a Medical Needs Shelter has been opened at the Bon Secours Wellness Arena. The shelter is equipped to assist individuals and their caregivers who need power for medical equipment. If you’re unsure whether you qualify for the Medical Needs Shelter, you can call the SCDPH Medical Needs Line at 1-855-472-3432 for guidance.

Open Stores and Gas Stations:

In addition to the critical information provided during the briefing, I also want to share a list of stores and gas stations that are open throughout the county. I am sure there are other openings, and please list them in the comments, but here’s information collected from myself and other citizens who helped in their respective parts of the County.

Open Gas Stations:

• Walmart (Wade Hampton near N. Pleasantburg) – Open.

• QT (Wade Hampton near Red Lobster) – Open.

• 7/11 (Old Buncombe Rd & Duncan Chapel) – Open.

• Spinx (183/Thomas Mill) – Open.

• Spinx (Marietta) – Open with gas.

• QT (291 & 385) – Open with gas.

• Racetrack (I-85 and White Horse) – Open with gas, no lines.

• Circle K (Pelham & Hudson Rd) – Open.

• Harris Teeter Fuel Station (Old Spartanburg Rd, Greer) – Open.

• Spinx (White Horse Rd) – Open.

• QT (White Horse Rd) – Open.

• Spinx Station (290) – Open.

• Ingles (Travelers Rest) – Open for gas, cash only.

• Five Forks QT (Woodruff Rd) – Open with gas.

• QT Gas Station (2085 SC-86, Piedmont) – Open.

• Spinx (2100 SC-86, Piedmont) – Open.

Open Grocery Stores:

• Publix (Old Buncombe Rd, University Plaza) – Open.

• Walmart (Travelers Rest) – Open.

• Ingles (Travelers Rest) – Open, cash only.

• Food Lion (Berea) – Open, accepting both cards and cash.

• Costco (Pelham & Hudson Rd) – Open.

• Harris Teeter (Old Spartanburg Rd, Greer) – Open.

• Five Forks Area (Woodruff Rd) – Walmart, Publix, Lidl – Open.

• Lowe’s Foods (Five Forks) – Open with gas.

• Dollar General (908 Anderson St, Piedmont) – Open.

• Dollar Tree (715 Anderson St, Piedmont) – Open.

• Walgreens (915 Anderson St, Piedmont) – Open.

Open Restaurants & Cafes:

• Bridge City and Tree House Cafe (Travelers Rest) – Open with coffee.

• Bojangles (2095 SC-86, Piedmont) – Open.

• Burger King (White Horse Rd) – Open.

• Burger King (1929 SC-86, Piedmont) – Open.

• The Big Clock Restaurant (White Horse Rd) – Open.

• Domino’s (914 Anderson St, Piedmont) – Open.

• Starbucks (1907 SC-86, Piedmont) – Open.

Other Open Businesses:

• Tractor Supply (Travelers Rest) – Open, cash only.

• Ace Hardware (Travelers Rest) – Open.

An additional list can be found provide by Greenville Online, as shared with me by Journalist Savannah Moss. You can find it here and they said they will update the list as things progress: Greenville Online

Please remember that while this list reflects the best available information right now, the situation is still fluid and subject to change. Be sure to carry cash if possible, as some locations are cash only due to power or internet outages. Also, be aware that gas supplies may fluctuate, so plan accordingly.

In closing, I want to express my gratitude to all of our local leaders and emergency personnel who are working around the clock to get us through this difficult time. We are fortunate to have Sheriff Lewis, Director Stumpf, and Director Blackwell leading the charge on recovery, and I’m confident that Greenville County will emerge stronger once this is all behind us. I’ll continue to provide updates as more information becomes available, and as always, if you need assistance or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to myself or your districts council person!

We’re in this together, and we’ll get through this together.

Stay safe, Greenville County! - BBD19