CHARLESTON COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) – Charleston County EMS resumed normal operations Friday morning after strong winds from what was Hurricane Helene lashed the area. The storm struck Florida’s Big Bend late Thursday night before morning north through Georgia; However, the storm’s size and strength brought high wind, heavy rain, and tornadoes to the area. The county’s EMS services were modified during the early morning hours and stopped traveling over the Ravenel Bridge. Crews were also concerned about the number of trees down on roadways. Ambulances and supervisors continued to respond to calls for service where conditions allowed. Patients who required transportation were taken to the closest appropriate hospital during the modified service. “We encourage everyone to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary,” the county said around 6 a.m. “If you must venture outside, please be cautious for downed trees, powerlines, or other debris.  If you encounter flooded roads, please don’t drive through them.” EMS service in the country resumed normal operations shortly after 7 a.m., but warned trees and water still blocked many roadways.