Hurricane Helene upsets the rhythmic life of Greenville
Let us paint a picture for you. Imagine a hurricane leaving dozens of trees uprooted, buildings with leakage, flooding, and power blackout and that’s just the start. That’s right, folks. The sounds of Hurricane Helene are being heard loud and clear in our beloved city of Greenville and across the Upstate region, particularly at Furman University, where instructions are being left at the mercy of nature.
According to a prominent figure at Furman University, “There is extensive flooding in the Upstate region and widespread power outages in the region, including campus. There is no notice when power will return.”
He further added, “The safety of students, faculty, and staff remains our utmost concern.” This sentiment reinstates the fact that while natural disasters are unpredictable, our institutions continue to prioritize our wellbeing.
The shutdowns
A wave of shutdowns is making headline news, folks. A significant number of educational institutions have decided on cancellations. Among the names are Furman University, Greenville County Schools, Converse University, Clemson University, Spartanburg Community College, and Wofford College, to name a few. Some are opting for e-learning while others have canceled all activities for the time being.
One spokesperson was heard saying, “All activities are canceled tonight, September 27, through Sunday, September 29. We will make a decision about Monday as soon as we can assess our buildings.”
On to sports!
No, the hurricane has not sacked football entirely. A decision on whether the varsity football game will commence is said to be made soon. Some colleges have even confirmed their volleyball matches for the coming weekend. Fingers crossed!
The silver lining
It is in times like these that we see the real spirit of humanity. Anderson University, for instance, has made provisions for the essential services, catering to those who cannot leave or arrive at their destinations. The college’s emergency shelter, G. Ross Anderson, Jr. Student Center, is well equipped with backup power, emergency supplies, food, water, and the likes. Quite impressive, isn’t it?
While everyone waits eagerly…
Several districts have already made the call to have an E-Learning Day on Friday. After-school activities and athletic events are also being called off in anticipation of possible weather irritants. The key advice to all is to follow weather advisories closely as the situation unfolds.
Limestone university, for one, is not taking any risks. They’ve gone ahead to cancel classes on Thursday and Friday. The faculty and staff offices also remain shut. Measures are in place for students to gather at a designated place powered with a backup generator, should there be a power outage.
As we buckle up to face Hurricane Helene’s full wrath, here’s hoping everyone stays safe and the hurricane season passes with minimal damage. A gentle reminder, folks – let’s lend our hands to one another in these trying times because, at the end of the day, we’re all in this together.
