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TRYON—After nearly a week in the dark, power was restored to downtown Tryon Thursday afternoon around 4:45 p.m.

Residents who had gathered along Trade St. at Huckleberry’s Restaurant erupted in cheers and applause.

Sections of downtown had power restored about an hour earlier, but when the full stretch became fully functional, the relief was palpable.

“Thank God,” one resident said. “There are so many out there still suffering. Little by little, we are getting back to normal.”

Tropical Storm Helene tore through the area Friday morning, leaving unfathomable damage and destruction in its wake.

Columbus and Saluda downtowns had power restored Wednesday and Thursday, respectively.