Richland County, in partnership with the American Red Cross, will open Ridgeview High School on Hard Scrabble Road to serve as a shelter for coastal evacuees.

The shelter, which opens at 4 p.m. Sept. 11, will not accept pets. However, Richland County is making plans to accommodate evacuees who arrive with domesticated animals.

Richland County is currently operating at OPCON Level 3, which indicates an emergency situation is likely or imminent, with partial activation of the Emergency Operation Center (EOC).  The EOC acts as the central hub for the County’s emergency response activities during severe weather events and other emergency situations.

Residents with general questions related to the storm may call the EOC at 803-576-3439.

In addition to housing evacuees, Richland County also is assisting with medical evacuations from the coast. Members of the Emergency Medical Services Division are taking part in medical evacuations by transporting patients from coastal regions to facilities elsewhere.

In Richland County, Public Works and Operational Services employees are mobilizing efforts to mitigate flooding threats and other damage, particularly in low lying areas of the County that are prone to flooding and the accumulation of storm-related debris. Additionally, the Solid Waste & Recycling Division advises residents to note the following regarding roll carts:

• Strong wind can blow roll carts into the street; therefore roll carts should be put out for servicing by 7 a.m. on collection day and returned to a safe location as soon as possible after they are serviced
• Ensure the lid of the roll cart is closed securely to reduce the possibility of trash blowing out