(Columbia)—The following is a statement from Governor David M. Beasley on Hurricane Bonnie:
“This morning I am pleased to announce I am
lifting the evacuation order for Horry County. I have consulted with
local officials and law enforcement this morning. We believe it is
safe for most residents to return to their homes and their businesses.
Let me emphasize, however, that some areas
may still be too dangerous to let people back in. Local officials
can make the decision to contain certain areas.
We are all thankful that South Carolina was
spared the worst of Bonnie’s wrath. While we suffered some cuts and
bruises, our great beaches and the Grand Strand will soon be fully open
for business.
I would like to ask South Carolinians to pray
for our neighbors to the north. Bonnie has hit North Carolina hard,
and this storm continues to do damage. I plan to call Governor Hunt
soon to see what assistance South Carolina can offer.
I will travel to Myrtle Beach later this morning
to inspect the damage.
I want to personally thank all the law enforcement
officers, the National Guard troops, and the local officials for their
work.
But most importantly, I want to personally
thank the people who live along the Grand Strand. We avoided serious
injuries or deaths because of their patient cooperation. They have
endured traffic, restless nights in shelters, and now they may have repairs
to make. But like true South Carolinians they have endured with grace
and dignity. I am proud to be their Governor, and more importantly,
they have made me proud again to be a South Carolinian.”