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CHARLESTON -- The governor of West Virginia Tuesday approved plans to send men and equipment from the National Guard to South Carolina for Hurricane Dorian and offered evacuees half off accommodations at state parks.
The request for assistance made by the state of South Carolina calls for two medical evacuation helicopters and crews to support search and rescue operations and swift water operations as needed, West Virginia Gov. Jim Justice said.
"We, as West Virginians, are all too familiar with the devastating effects major storms can have on communities," Justice said. "We will absolutely do everything we can possibly do to help the people in the path of Hurricane Dorian."
The two crews, each consisting of four soldiers, will leave for South Carolina today and are scheduled to remain there for the next week. They will initially be stationed and operate from a nearby South Carolina Army National Guard flight facility but may move to other locations based on where the storm impacts.
After these crews depart, the West Virginia National Guard will still have four additional medical evacuation helicopters and three crews remaining in the state.
However, the aircraft and crews leaving for South Carolina may be recalled if they are needed in West Virginia for any unforeseen circumstance.
This support effort will be initially paid for through the Governor's Contingency Fund, until South Carolina can reimburse the state.
Justice also announced a 50 percent discount for evacuees at state parks in West Virginia on all rooms, cabins and campsites. The discount is valid through Monday.
"West Virginia stands ready to welcome anyone who may be in need of shelter as a result of Hurricane Dorian," Justice said. "We're one of the most hospitable states in the country, and in a time when so many of our friends in nearby states are hurting, it's the least we can do to offer a comfortable place to stay at our great state parks."
Pet fees also are being waived, the governor said.
Those seeking shelter from the storm can make reservations at wvstateparks.com by using the promo code DORIAN. Reservations can also be made by calling 1-833-WV-PARKS.