Power Outages Continue to Challenge Residents in Newberry, S.C.
Newberry, S.C. – It’s been a challenging week for many residents of this charming town, as they grapple with the aftermath of a severe storm that left thousands without power. After nearly a week of uncertainty, there is finally some hope on the horizon for those affected, but the journey to complete recovery is still underway.
Storm Aftermath: A City in Transition
The storm that hit Newberry did a real number on the power infrastructure, knocking out electricity for an astonishing 14,000 families. As of now, around 9,500 homes have had their power restored, leaving approximately 4,500 customers still in the dark as energy crews scramble to fix the resulting damage.
According to the Newberry Electric Cooperative, the repair process is extensive. The county’s sheriff, Lee Foster, explained that replacing a single downed power pole can take a minimum of three hours. “It’s a long and tedious process, and we want to make sure everything is done safely and correctly,” he said. This situation has led to frustrations among those who were eagerly hoping to reconnect with modern conveniences.
Community Spirit Shines Through
Despite these challenges, the sense of community in Newberry has been nothing short of inspiring. Local first responders and volunteers have stepped up to the plate, providing vital support to those in need. At the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office, supplies including food and water have been distributed, aiding those who are struggling during this tough time.
“This is day 6.5 without power, and we still have a lot of people without power,” said Sheriff Foster, emphasizing how crucial it is to lend a helping hand. The distributions are set to continue until every resident has the comforts of home back in their lives.
A Helping Hand: Residents on the Move
Among those at the Sheriff’s Office was resident Dantoni Thompson, who took time out of his day to collect supplies—not for himself, but to help his neighbors. Thompson described the situation, saying, “It was rough we had no electricity, no power.” His resilience shone through as he spoke about focusing on others even in his time of need.
His elderly neighbor, whom he helps, just had their power restored recently, and Thompson was busy picking up items to help fill gaps while they waited. “It’s important to lend a hand,” he remarked, showcasing the spirit of cooperation that is so prevalent in Newberry. Thompson’s story is just one of many, as residents rally together and support each other through this adversity.
Looking Ahead
Looking towards the future, it’s clear that the road to recovery will take a little time—it’s a slow and steady process, but it’s one that the community is more than capable of handling. Local leaders and utility crews are working around the clock to restore power and reinforce the infrastructure.
As families continue to band together, sharing resources and checking in on one another, Newberry is a shining example of resilience and hope. The community’s spirit remains unbroken, as everyone waits patiently for the lights to come back on and life to get back to normal.
For those still coping with challenges, remember that help is available, and the community is here to support you until everyone can say, “We have power!” The recovery effort will continue, and together, Newberry will rise stronger than ever.
