SC officials partially open state emergency center for Erika

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — The South Carolina Emergency Management Division says it has partially activated its emergency center as officials watch Tropical Storm Erika.

Division director Kim Stenson said in a statement that he hopes the storm avoids South Carolina. But he says residents should review their preparation plans, especially along the South Carolina coast.

Forecasters say there is still much uncertainty with the storm’s forecast. Current projections have Erika making landfall on the southwest coast of Florida and moving inland toward South Carolina.

Emergency officials have told key agencies in South Carolina to be ready to respond if needed.