Coronavirus live updates: Here’s what to know in South Carolina on June 5
We’re tracking the most up-to-date information about the coronavirus in South Carolina. Check back for updates.
300-plus new cases in one day
At least 13,453 people in South Carolina have tested positive for the coronavirus and 538 have died as of Friday, according to state officials.
On Friday, the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control reported 447 new cases of COVID-19. It’s been a record-setting week, including two days with more than 400 new reported cases and three days of over 300, surpassing record highs from April and May.
The department also reported 13 additional deaths in Charleston, Cherokee, Clarendon, Greenville, Horry, Orangeburg, Richland and Spartanburg counties.
More than 6.7 million cases of the virus have been reported worldwide and more than 393,000 people have died as of Friday, according to Johns Hopkins University. In the United States, more than 1.8 million have tested positive and more than 108,000 people have died.
Hurricane season begins during pandemic
Forecasters are expecting a particularly intense hurricane season, and coupled with the coronavirus pandemic and ongoing protests over the death of George Floyd, South Carolina officials are readying for what could be a rough few months, The State reported.
“There are a lot of challenges coming at one time,” Gov. Henry McMaster said at a Thursday press conference, but added that state agencies are preparing for the worst and will be ready.
State health officials said people must keep COVID-19 in mind for their hurricane emergency plan, and recommended that coastal residents have masks, soap and disinfectant ready to take with them if forced to evacuate.
Unemployment costs increase
South Carolina has paid out almost $2 billion in unemployment claims since the coronavirus pandemic began in the state, according to the S.C. Department of Employment and Workforce.
More than half a million people in South Carolina have applied for new unemployment benefits since the governor declared a state of emergency in March, according to The State.
Last week about 19,000 people filed for jobless benefits for the first time, data show. The number of new claims filed each week has been falling for the past seven weeks, but unemployment in the state remains at historic levels.
This story was originally published June 5, 2020 at 7:25 AM.