News Summary
Heavy rainfall has triggered flood warnings in multiple counties across South Carolina, with predictions of small stream flooding in central and southeast regions. Areas including Bamberg, Orangeburg, Colleton, and Dorchester are particularly affected, leading to school closures and emergency declarations. Authorities urge residents to avoid flooded areas and take safety precautions as the situation worsens, with rising water levels posing immediate threats. Efforts are underway to provide assistance and assess damages as communities cope with the impact of the ongoing flooding.
Columbia, South Carolina – Flood warnings have been issued across multiple counties in South Carolina due to ongoing heavy rainfall, with warnings established from Wednesday at 11:42 AM EDT until Saturday at 2:00 PM EDT. The National Weather Service predicts small stream flooding from excessive rainfall in central and southeast regions of the state, affecting areas including Bamberg, Orangeburg, Colleton, and Dorchester counties.
The heavy rainfall has already resulted in widespread flooding of rivers, creeks, and low-lying areas, with the Edisto River reported to be above flood stage as of 11:34 AM EDT. Recent measurements indicate that 6 to 8 inches of rain fell early this week. Current conditions show slow-moving water or standing water in numerous locations, prompting officials to caution residents against venturing into these dangerous areas.
Areas most at risk for flooding include Branchville along with rural locales in Orangeburg and Bamberg counties, specifically Cat Hole and Springtown. Authorities have noted that river levels are expected to continue rising, potentially approaching homes, structures, and roadways near the Edisto River. Specific roads facing significant impacts include Biscayne Court, which is already facing hazardous conditions.
As the rain continues, officials are urging residents to take safety precautions such as not driving through flooded roads and turning around when encountering barricades. Further, riverbanks and culverts may become unstable, posing additional risks. Over 120 roads in Orangeburg County remain closed or blocked due to damages incurred from last week’s storm, further complicating travel and emergency response.
In light of the flooding, Orangeburg County schools were closed for several days due to the dangerous conditions and road impacts. To assist residents struggling to access fresh water as a result of the flooding, a point of distribution for bottled water has been established at the Neeses Fire Department.
In response to the severe flooding and the damage to infrastructure, emergency declarations have been made by the governors of Georgia and South Carolina. Local officials are continually assessing the damage and working to establish safe transportation routes in affected areas.
Evacuations have already commenced in Colleton County, as rising water levels pose an immediate threat to local residents. It has also been reported that conditions may worsen further, as the water from earlier rainfall drains into rivers and waterways, potentially causing localized flooding in additional areas.
This flooding crisis is part of a larger pattern of severe weather affecting the region, with local authorities prioritizing responder safety and resident health during this emergency. Ongoing updates will be provided as the situation develops, and residents are encouraged to stay informed of weather forecasts and official guidance in the coming days.
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