Hurricane Ian – update: Florida death toll rises as emergency services suspended amid South Carolina landfall
Hurricane Ian is heading for land again as a Category 1 storm after ripping across Florida and restrengthening over the Atlantic.
South Carolina, where the storm is projected to make landfall on Friday afternoon, is subject to major flood warnings, strong winds and a “life-threatening storm surge”.
Flooding began early on Friday in Charleston, closing some streets as the city shuts down in anticipation of the storm’s arrival. Storm surge in that area could reach up to seven feet (2.1 metres).
President Joe Biden has issued an emergency declaration for South Carolina.
The storm hit Florida as one of the most powerful hurricanes in Florida’s history, with wind speeds nearly reaching Category 5.
Nearly 2 million people in Florida remain without power – and economic losses could amount to as much as $120bn, according to one estimate.
The state’s death toll also continues to rise as officials survey the damage. On Friday morning, officials reported one confirmed and 20 unconfirmed deaths in three counties. Officials expect the death toll to increase following the devastating storm.
