Strong winds, microburst bring significant damage to Orangeburg
ORANGEBURG, S.C. (WIS) - Business owners in Orangeburg spent the day cleaning up after a storm barreled through the city.
Severe storms caused significant damage on Tuesday night, specifically in the areas of Broughton and Russell streets. Thankfully, no injuries were reported.
Jackie Elmore, who owns Exotic Hair Salon on Broughton Street, said she was working moments before the storm hit and was shocked to see the damage left behind.
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“Right before I got off, it just started pouring. It was raining so hard, we can barely see to get to our vehicles. I just figured we were gonna have some rain and that was going to be it. I really didn’t see the damage until I came in today and it’s amazing that it’s just a few feet away from our business,” said Elmore.
On Wednesday, crews from Orangeburg County Emergency Services surveyed the area and determined winds as strong as 70 to 90 miles per hour ripped through the area causing significant damage.
“We’re checking the structures by making sure the structures are safe for people to come in to go and use. As we finish that, we’ll be going in and doing our damage assessment to put a dollar figure on it to figure out how many dollars’ worth of damage we got,” said Billy Staley, Orangeburg County Division Director of Emergency Services.
Several businesses were closed in the wake of the storm as crews continue to assess the damage.
These assessments will not only determine when buildings are clear to reopen but will also determine whether the county can seek federal financial assistance to repair damage.
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Elmore is thankful that her business remains intact.
“God’s Grace. It’s amazing that he didn’t allow anything to touch our dwelling and we’re able to continue work this week,” said Elmore.
“Monitor these severe weather events so you will know where this stuff is at and where it’s coming from and make sure you have an emergency plan to respond to keep yourself safe,” said Staley.
While the streets are clear, officials say Broughton and Russell streets are expected to reopen Thursday afternoon.
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