Severe Flooding Hits Central and Southeastern South Carolina

News Summary

A flood warning has been issued in Central and Southeastern South Carolina due to excessive rainfall leading to significant flooding. Major counties affected include Bamberg, Orangeburg, Colleton, and Dorchester. Officials have reported small streams overflowing and river levels surpassing flood stage, resulting in disrupted road access and school closures. Emergency services are mobilizing to assist residents, and evacuations are underway for those near the Edisto River. Both Georgia and South Carolina governors have declared a state of emergency for impacted areas.

COLUMBIA, SC – A flood warning has been issued for central and southeastern South Carolina, lasting until 2 PM EDT Saturday. The warning specifically affects counties including Bamberg, Orangeburg, Colleton, and Dorchester due to excessive rainfall leading to significant flooding in the area.

Officials report that small streams are flooding from the excessive rainfall, as river gauge data shows water levels along the Edisto River have surpassed flood stage. Early in the week, the region received approximately 6-8 inches of rain, which has exacerbated the flooding conditions. This has resulted in slow-moving and standing water impacting various local waterways.

The North Fork of the Edisto River is nearing its crest, while the South Fork continues to flow, creating further concerns for flooding in nearby areas. Key locations that are expected to experience significant flooding include Branchville and several rural regions in both Bamberg and Orangeburg Counties.

Residents in affected areas are advised to remain vigilant and avoid driving through flooded roadways or circumventing barricades, adhering to the safety slogan, “Turn around, don’t drown.” As of 11:34 AM EDT, more rain is anticipated, which is likely to increase water levels in streams and rivers, leading to additional flooding.

The flooding situation has resulted in considerable disruption, with roads closed across the region. Statistics reveal that approximately 126 roads in Orangeburg County are currently inaccessible due to water accumulation. Moreover, some schools in Orangeburg County remain closed, while Bamberg County has moved to implement eLearning days to accommodate students during this crisis.

Emergency services are mobilizing to assist residents affected by flooding. Evacuations are underway for those living near the Edisto River, whose homes have become threatened by rising waters. Additionally, bottled water distribution is being carried out for residents who are left without access to clean drinking water.

The gravity of the situation has prompted both Georgia Governor Brian Kemp and South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster to declare a state of emergency in the counties impacted by the flooding. Citizens have been urged to report any damages and follow advisories regarding evacuations to ensure their safety.

The severe weather and subsequent flooding are a response to the excessive rain that has plagued the region, highlighting the vulnerability of low-lying areas prone to flooding. Affected residents are encouraged to stay informed about the ongoing weather conditions and to heed all emergency instructions from local authorities.

As the situation continues to develop, residents are advised to monitor updates and remain prepared for further adjustments in emergency procedures, as both state and local authorities work to manage the flooding crisis and ensure public safety.

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Additional Resources

• WFXG: SLED Asking for Help Solving 2023 Bamberg Murder
• WRDW: More Than 120 Roads Remain Closed Due to Flooding in Orangeburg County
• WISTV: Bamberg County Experiences Heavy Floods Following Edisto River Cresting
• Google Search: Flooding Bamberg Orangeburg
• WLTX: FEMA Assistance for Bamberg, Calhoun, and Orangeburg Flooding
• Wikipedia: Flood