News Summary
A severe flood advisory has been issued for Calhoun, Lexington, and Orangeburg counties in South Carolina due to heavy rainfall. The National Weather Service warns residents of potential small stream flooding and urges caution on flooded roadways. Evacuation measures and safety precautions are advised as the situation escalates, alongside warnings against driving through floodwaters. An updated flash flood warning was also released for Lexington and Richland counties, which have experienced significant rainfall. Residents near the Congaree River should remain alert for rising water levels.
Severe Flood Advisory for Calhoun, Lexington, and Orangeburg Counties
A severe flood advisory has been issued for Calhoun, Lexington, and Orangeburg counties in South Carolina as heavy rainfall continues to affect the area. The National Weather Service (NWS) Columbia SC released the advisory early Saturday morning at 1:03 a.m., which is effective until 3 a.m. Residents in these regions are urged to be cautious as small stream flooding is expected due to excessive rainfall, and minor flooding is likely in low-lying and poorly drained areas.
The NWS emphasizes that most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles, leading to a strong warning against driving through flooded roadways. With rainfall causing nearly invisible flooded roads, especially at night, the NWS advises residents to “turn around, don’t drown.” This precaution is vital given the dangers posed by hidden hazards in flooded conditions.
Residents living in flood-prone or low-lying areas are advised to move to higher ground immediately. In instances where evacuation is necessary, individuals should secure their homes by locking the doors and, if possible, disconnecting utilities and appliances before leaving. People are strongly cautioned against entering basements or rooms where water is covering electrical outlets or submerged cords. Any sounds of buzzing or sparking should trigger an immediate evacuation from the area, as these may indicate dangerous electrical hazards.
In addition, individuals are warned to stay clear of water that could contain electricity and to avoid walking through floodwaters. Just 6 inches of moving water can be enough to knock over an adult. If one finds themselves trapped by swift-moving water, they should seek the highest potential point and call 911 when it is safe to do so. The NWS notes that the risk of flooding escalates during intense rainfall, particularly in low-lying regions.
Updated Flash Flood Warning
On the same day, an updated flash flood warning was issued at 12:13 a.m. for Lexington and Richland counties, effective until 2 a.m. This warning follows reports of thunderstorms with heavy rainfall, leading to flooded roadways and disabled vehicles. Rainfall amounts have reached between 2 to 4 inches, with an additional 1 to 2 inches possible. These conditions have prompted ongoing flash flooding, particularly impacting urban areas, highways, and other low-lying regions.
Specific locations affected include Columbia, West Columbia, and Cayce, among others. The advisory strongly highlights the dangers associated with driving through flooded areas, reiterating the significant risks involved.
River Flood Advisory
A distinct flood advisory for the Congaree River at Columbia is also in effect, extending into Richland and Lexington counties. As of 4 p.m. on Monday, the river stage was recorded at 10.1 feet, with anticipated rises to 13.5 feet expected by early Wednesday morning. Flooding is likely in areas near and downstream from Columbia, particularly affecting regions like the Cayce and West Columbia Riverwalk.
Residents are encouraged to exercise caution when in proximity to the river and to find alternative routes when encountering flooded roadways. The NWS is continuously monitoring the situation and advising communities to remain vigilant about further rainfall and potential flood impacts.
As weather conditions evolve, local authorities and the NWS will provide updates regarding safety measures and any changes to the advisory status. For safety, it is crucial for residents in the affected areas to stay informed and heed all warnings as heavy rainfall persists.
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Severe Flood Advisory in SC
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Myrtle Beach Online: Weather Updates
- Google Search: Flood Advisory South Carolina
- Cola Daily: Flood Advisory Issued
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- The State: Flash Flood Warnings
- Google News: South Carolina Weather
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