Trees are down, power is out and businesses are reporting closures and late starts in the aftermath of the storm

Closed roads due to flooding and debris are “widespread” throughout Richland County, county spokesperson Susan O’Cain said Friday morning. Emergency management services across the county are asking residents to stay off of the roads and avoid traveling unless absolutely necessary.

Hurricane Helene made landfall just after 11 p.m. Thursday near Perry — about 100 miles from Gainesville — packing winds up to 140 mph.