The Red Cross is recruiting volunteers to help out with Tropical Storm Debby relief efforts.
The storm that hit Florida as a Category 1 hurricane was downgraded to a tropical storm and was set to make its way up near the coastline of South Carolina and Georgia on Tuesday.
The storm was expected to move slowly toward the South Carolina coast on Wednesday and Thursday before moving northward. It is expected to bring heavy rainfall, flooding, and strong wind.
Mandy McMahon, Red Cross South Carolina spokesperson, said the organization is seeking volunteers throughout the state to assist with sheltering.
Hundreds of volunteers nationwide have traveled to the Low Country to help, McMahon said. The majority will be shelter volunteers assisting people or fleeing from the storm, but other volunteers are deputized with health services and response teams.
The Red Cross is asking for people to donate and the proceeds will go towards helping with resources.
More: Tracking Tropical Storm Debby: What to know about coastal South Carolina, Upstate forecasts
According to McMahon, blood drives in the Midlands and Low Country were canceled because of the storm. Anyone who can donate to a blood drive should sign up.
The Red Cross is asking people to apply to become volunteers. In addition to being a blood donor, options include being a blood transportation specialist, a member of the action team, or a shelter volunteer.
The Red Cross advises people to evacuate areas expected to receive major storm damage and flooding. For people who will be caught in the storm, the organization said to stay indoors, avoid beaches, and do not go outside into flood water. They advise using flashlights and avoiding candles. For people driving during the storm, do not go into flooded water.
This article originally appeared on Greenville News: How to help South Carolina Red Cross with Tropical Storm Debby response
