NATION IN BRIEF : SOUTH CAROLINA : Hurricane Damage Put at $4 Billion

The first comprehensive report on Hurricane Hugo’s assault on South Carolina puts the damage at $4 billion and estimates more than 40,000 people will need counseling. The 2-inch-thick report produced by the state Budget and Control Board gives a picture of the state through Oct. 27, five weeks after Hugo blew ashore. It covers preliminary damage assessments and relief efforts from 25 agencies. The report also said that the Federal Emergency Management Agency expects to spend $149.3 million in assistance to state and local governments. South Carolina will dispense $8.2 million in such aid. The report is expected to be updated as more precise assessments become available.