Cloudy Skies and Road Closures in Aiken Following Tropical Storm Helene

Cloudy Skies and Cleanup in Aiken After Tropical Storm Helene

Hey there, Aiken! It’s a little cloudy today, and whether you’re heading out for your morning cup of coffee or going about your daily errands, you might want to grab that umbrella. According to the weather report, we’re going to have some rain developing this afternoon, with temperatures reaching a comfy 66°F. But don’t get too cozy just yet—a significant 80% chance of rain is looming over us. Later tonight, expect more drizzles and a low of 59°F, with about a 60% chance of showers sticking around to keep things damp.

Road Closures Ahead, Folks!

In the wake of Tropical Storm Helene, things are a bit messy around the city. If you plan to travel through the intersection of Berrie and Whiskey roads, get ready for some delays! Starting at 9 a.m. today, Aiken officials announced that they will be closing the northbound lane of Whiskey Road between South Boundary Avenue and Grace Avenue. So, if you’re heading to the Southside or back downtown, expect to hit some traffic and maybe even plan for a little extra travel time.

Now, don’t fret! There are alternative routes available to keep your journey moving. You can take Banks Mill Road or Powderhouse Road, both of which connect East Pine Log Road to South Boundary Avenue. Two Notch Road is another option that runs parallel to Whisky Road, but keep in mind that it only runs to Grace Avenue and some parts through the Horse District are unpaved. If you’re feeling adventurous, the Horse District has some lovely scenic views, especially if you drive under the beautiful South Boundary oaks.

The Bypass—Your Best Bet!

For those looking to dodge the chaos all together, consider taking the bypass. Hitchcock Parkway, East Pine Log Road, and Rudy Mason Parkway can whisk you away while avoiding the closed lanes. Just hop off at Richland Avenue to get back downtown without the hassle! It could even turn out to be a pleasant scenic drive.

Aiken and Its Underground Power Lines

On a related note, let’s chat about our beloved city of Aiken and its power infrastructure. Since the 1990s, Aiken has required that new residential constructions have their power lines installed underground—great news for avoiding storm damage! Unfortunately, many areas still bear the brunt of overhead lines, which can lead to outages and disruptions during rough weather. After Tropical Storm Helene, many residents are raising concerns about the need for further upgrades in our local infrastructure.

Matthew Christian, a dedicated reporter with the Aiken Standard, has been chronicling the latest happenings around our city, from public safety to politics. His dedication to keeping us informed is much appreciated! Remember, it’s great to support local journalism to keep our community updated on the important issues that affect us all.

Stay Safe, Aiken!

So, Aiken folks, as we brace for some rain and cleanup efforts, let’s keep our spirits high! Make sure to take the necessary precautions while traveling through detours and road closures, and don’t forget your umbrella! Here’s hoping for brighter days ahead, and let’s keep supporting each other as we recover from the effects of the storm. Happy Tuesday, everyone!