News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning for several areas in central South Carolina due to severe thunderstorms. The warning affects parts of Lexington, Newberry, and Saluda counties, with significant rainfall already recorded and more expected. Residents are urged to avoid flooded roadways and stay informed as flash flooding can occur suddenly, posing a serious risk to both life and property.
Columbia, South Carolina – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flash Flood Warning for several regions in central South Carolina due to severe thunderstorms bringing heavy rainfall. The warning is effective from Tuesday at 8:30 AM EDT until 11:30 AM EDT, affecting areas in northwestern Lexington County, southeastern Newberry County, and northeastern Saluda County.
As of the warning’s start time, Doppler radar indicated that thunderstorms were producing significant rainfall in the affected regions, with between 1.5 to 2 inches already recorded. An additional rainfall of up to 1 inch is anticipated, further exacerbating the risk of flash flooding, which is either ongoing or expected to begin in the near future.
The primary hazard associated with these thunderstorms is flash flooding, which poses risks to small creeks, streams, urban areas, and highways. Key locations likely to experience flooding include Prosperity, Little Mountain, Stoney Hill, Wyses Ferry, Riverbend Boat Ramp, Fairview Fire Station, Mid-Carolina High School, Lake Murray Shores, and Hollywood Elementary School. The warning also covers a stretch of Interstate 26 between mile markers 78 and 86.
Authorities are strongly advising against driving through flooded roadways or around barricades, reinforcing the message of “turn around, don’t drown” to ensure public safety. The risk associated with floodwaters includes rapid rises in water levels that can catch drivers unprepared.
Existing Flood Advisory
Prior to the Flash Flood Warning, a Flood Advisory was already in effect until 10:15 AM EDT for areas experiencing excessive rainfall. This advisory covers parts of Lexington, Newberry, Richland, and Saluda counties. Observations have shown between 1 to 2.5 inches of rain throughout this advisory area, with further rains of 1 to 2 inches expected, posing potential minor flooding risks.
The Flood Advisory includes locations such as Newberry, Saluda, Prosperity, Saluda County Airport, Chapin, Little Mountain, Pomaria, Silverstreet, Peak, Wyses Ferry, Stoney Hill, and more institutions like Hollywood Elementary School and Mid-Carolina High School. The advisory also encompasses portions of Interstate 26 between mile markers 75 and 93.
Impact of Flooding
The impact of flooding in these areas may cause significant disruptions, including:
- Flash flooding of small creeks and streams
- Flooding in urban locales
- Traffic disruptions on highways, streets, and underpasses
- Inundation of areas with poor drainage and low-lying regions
Flash floods can occur without warning and can transform roadways into torrents, leading to dangerous driving conditions and increased risk of accidents. Residents are encouraged to remain informed and prepare for potential flooding in their vicinity.
Background Context
Flash floods are a sudden onset of flooding, typically characterized by high rainfall rates over a short period. These weather events can be caused by severe thunderstorms or prolonged rainfall events. The NWS issues flash flood warnings when conditions indicate that flash flooding is imminent, and residents in affected areas are urged to take immediate precautions.
With severe weather expected, residents are advised to stay tuned to local updates and adhere to safety guidelines issued by weather officials. Community members are encouraged to check on their emergency preparedness plans to ensure they are ready should flooding conditions escalate.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Augusta Schools Experience Knife Incidents and Student Threats
Augusta University Prepares for New Academic Year Amid Warm Autumn Forecast
Augusta Holds Community Budget Meetings Amid Concerns
Flooding Threatens Central South Carolina and Georgia
Flood Advisory and Flash Flood Warning in Central SC
Kerr County Emergency Manager Testifies on Flooding Tragedy
Heavy Rain Causes Flooding at Augusta National’s Amen Corner
The Truth Behind Flooding at Augusta National
Augusta Faces Unbelievable Flooding This Summer!
Southeast U.S. Faces Scorching Heat Wave
Additional Resources
- WFXG: Bill Maher Slams The View Hosts
- Wikipedia: Flash Flood
- Herald Online: Weather News
- Google Search: Flash Flood Warnings
- WRDW: Helene Brings Soul Searching
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Newtonian Mechanics
- WYFF4: Helene Flooding Live Updates
- Google News: Helene Flooding
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
