Gov. Henry McMaster makes two disaster declaration requests following Tropical Storm Debby

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WCBD) – Governor Henry McMaster requested Monday a Presidential Disaster Declaration and a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster declaration for eligible counties as a result of Tropical Storm Debby, which made landfall in South Carolina in August 2024.

The requests follow extensive damage reports that determined more than 900 homes were damaged, with public agency costs and infrastructure damage projected at more than $16 million.

If approved, the Presidential Disaster Declaration would bring FEMA assistance to people in Charleston, Colleton, and Dorchester counties. This could provide financial help to residents whose homes were damaged and who do not have insurance coverage for repairs. FEMA may also offer additional help based on individual needs.

The declaration would also activate the FEMA Public Assistance Program, which helps state and local governments, as well as certain non-profit organizations, recover from the disaster. This program covers 75% of recovery costs, while the state and other agencies will decide how to cover the remaining 25%. Public assistance would be available in 12 counties: Bamberg, Barnwell, Berkeley, Colleton, Dillon, Dorchester, Georgetown, Hampton, Horry, Jasper, Orangeburg, and Union.

In addition, Gov. McMaster has asked for a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) disaster declaration for Berkeley and Orangeburg counties. If granted, this would allow residents and businesses to apply for low-interest loans to help with storm-related expenses.

This is just the first request for federal aid through FEMA and the SBA, and more counties could be added as the recovery process continues.

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