WHEREAS, on August 29, 2004, I issued verbal orders that are published herein; and

WHEREAS, on August 29, 2004, the National Hurricane Center determined that the coastline of the State of South Carolina was vulnerable to the effects of a strong tropical storm that continued to advance toward South Carolina; and

WHEREAS, Tropical Storm Gaston represented a threat to the safety, security, welfare and property of citizens and transients living in South Carolina.

NOW, THEREFORE, by virtue of the power and authority vested in me as Governor, pursuant to the Constitution and Statutes of the State of South Carolina, on August 29, 2004, I declared a State of Emergency in South Carolina. I directed that the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan be placed into effect. I directed that all prudent preparations be taken at the individual, local, and state levels to protect against the possible effects of Tropical Storm Gaston.

FURTHER, I direct that the South Carolina National Guard be placed on a standby status and, at the discretion of the Adjutant General, in consultation with my office and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, specified units of the National Guard be placed on active duty to assist civil authorities and to take all reasonable precautions as necessary for the preservation of life and property. Further Proclamations and Orders deemed necessary to ensure the fullest possible protection of life and property during this State of Emergency shall be issued verbally by me, and thereafter published for dissemination within the succeeding twenty-four hour period. This state of emergency continues until further order of this office.

GIVEN UNDER MY HAND AND THE GREAT SEAL OF THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA, THIS 30th DAY OF AUGUST, 2004.

MARK SANFORD
Governor

Last Updated: Tuesday, July 7, 2009 at 11:15 A.M.