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We Survived Hurricane Helene

By
Real Estate Broker/Owner with Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc 10307

Surviving Hurricane Helene: A Community's Resilience

Hey there, neighbors and friends!

Well, we made it through Hurricane Helene, and let me tell you, it's been quite an adventure. Who would've thought that a place 250 miles from the coast could feel the impact of a storm so intensely? It's been a challenge with 18 inches of rain and trees down everywhere, but our community is coming together like never before. The eye of the storm passed over us at about 7:30 this morning.

First things first: the power's out—it went out about 7:30 this morning. Yep, we're among the millions across the state without electricity. Without the usual glow of traffic lights, people do not know to treat each intersection as a four-way stop.

It's been heartening to see the sheer dedication of our emergency crews. State, federal, and county teams have been out in force, working tirelessly to clear roads, restore power lines, and help those in need. This is a reminder of the strength and resilience of our community when faced with adversity.

For those wondering how we're coping, it's a mix of patience, resourcefulness, and a lot of community spirit. Checking in on neighbors, sharing supplies, and lending a hand wherever possible—these small acts of kindness make a big difference in times like these.

As we begin the cleanup process and assess the damage, remember to stay safe and look out for one another. Whether it's clearing debris from our yards or simply offering a word of encouragement, every little bit helps rebuild our homes and spirits.

So, here's to weathering the storm together and emerging more robust on the other side. Please stay safe and hopeful and support each other as we move forward. We've got this!

Warm regards,

Gwen

Posted by

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Gwen Fowler

Gwen Fowler Real Estate, Inc
317 South Highway 11
West Union SC 29696
Serving Oconee County, from the banks of the Chattooga River to the shores of Jocassee, Hartwell & Keowee Lakes, and all the private lakes in between.

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Contact me about property in Oconee County, Seneca, Walhalla, Westminster, Long Creek, Salem, Mountain Rest, Richland, Sunset and Six Mile, SC.  2nd homes are our expertise. 

The best number to reach me at is 1-864-710-4518--either by call or text.

View our listings at www.CoolMountainEscapes.com

 

 

 

Show All Comments Sort:
Dorie Dillard Austin TX
Coldwell Banker Realty ~ 512.750.6899 - Austin, TX
NW Austin ~ Canyon Creek and Spicewood/Balcones

Good evening Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518 ,

I'm surprised you can post...you've weathered quite a storm! Good to hear you and your community are coming together and now at the stage where you can be assessing the damage. Prayers to you and all in your community that you keep safe and get through this!

Sep 27, 2024 03:23 PM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518

My house does not have power, but my office does. Over half the state is out of power, so companies from all over are coming in to help get us back online and get power restored. Lots of trees are down, and I just discovered that the basement at home has flooded—goodbye to the 24 boxes we have not unpacked in 4 years.

Sep 27, 2024 03:47 PM
Kathy Streib
Cypress, TX
Home Stager/Redesign

Oh Gwen- I just read your reply to Dorie Dillard Austin TX 's comment and I'm so sorry your basement flooded. However, I'm glad that you are safe. Do you have a generator of any kind???

Sep 27, 2024 06:38 PM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518

No generator, but we can cook on the grill and there is lots of food in the freezer that will go bad if we don't eat it.  Thanks for the comment and thoughts.

Sep 28, 2024 06:11 AM
Ed Silva, 203-206-0754
Mapleridge Realty, CT 203-206-0754 - Waterbury, CT
Central CT Real Estate Broker Serving all equally

Good for you that all was safe, and the worst is past. It seems to be passing well south of us here in CT

Sep 27, 2024 07:03 PM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518

WE had some gusts of wind over 60 MPH, the rain was constant for 3 days. I know now what monsoon season must be.  Thanks for the comment.  

Sep 28, 2024 06:10 AM
Michael Jacobs
Pasadena, CA
Pasadena And Southern California 818.516.4393

Hello Gwen - your post is a reality check on the far-reaching impact of disasters.  May continuing better days be a part of your near future.  

Sep 28, 2024 02:19 AM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518

 

We are going to check on vacation homes this morning, some are remote and we are probably going to find the roads blocked with downed trees.  Lots of walking and steps today.  Thanks for the comment and thoughts.

Sep 28, 2024 06:09 AM
Brian England
Ambrose Realty Management LLC - Gilbert, AZ
MBA, GRI, REALTOR® Real Estate in East Valley AZ

Wow, I couldn't even imagine having to experience a storm like that.  I am glad you are ok and everyone else seems to be ok!

Sep 28, 2024 04:24 AM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518

The rain and wind were torrential, which is new to me as we generally do not get both at the same time.  Thank you for the comment and thoughts.

Sep 28, 2024 06:08 AM
Nina Hollander, Broker
Coldwell Banker Realty - Charlotte, NC
Your Greater Charlotte Real Estate Broker

Delighted to hear that you survived, Helene, Gwen. I can't imagine what you are going through, but I love your positive spirit. We were very fortunate in our part of Charlotte... a very soaked yard and lots of fallen leaves on my front porch and yard... but that was it. Sending you warm wishes and stay safe.

Sep 28, 2024 05:01 AM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518

Thank you for your thoughts, we are blessed as we don't have any trees on the roof or cars.  

Sep 28, 2024 06:07 AM
Kat Palmiotti
eXp Commercial, Referral Divison - Kalispell, MT
Helping your Montana dreams take root

Wow, 18" of rain is a TON! I'm sorry to hear the basement flooded and your boxes are ruined, but happy to hear you are okay. I'm glad you have an office to go to that still has power. Here's wishing you are back to normal soon.

Sep 28, 2024 05:21 AM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518

The office has power but not the comforts of being at home.  At least we are safe in both places.  Thanks for your kind words.

Sep 28, 2024 06:06 AM
Will Hamm
Hamm Homes - Aurora, CO
"Where There's a Will, There's a Way!"

Wow Gwen, 250 miles inland and still have that much water.  I am glad that you are safe.

Sep 28, 2024 08:20 AM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518

So am I, the wind was just as bad and very unexpected for our area.  Thanks for the comment

Sep 28, 2024 08:24 AM
Joan Cox
House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO
Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

Gwen, who would have thought you would have been hit so hard 250 miles inland!  Glad you are safe, and when times get tough, it is sweet to see/hear everyone pitches in!

Sep 28, 2024 02:07 PM
Gwen Fowler SC Lakes & Mountains 864-710-4518

We still do not have power but we really did not see the damage that other neighborhoods have.  Our friends in Asheville and surrounding areas are cut off, no cell service. We are praying everyone comes out OK

Sep 29, 2024 08:42 AM