The remnants of Hurricane Helene caused death and destruction throughout South Carolina, and threats remain in its aftermath.
A flood warning is in effect in the Midlands, the National Weather Service said. It will last until 11:45 a.m. Thursday in Columbia, but has no expiration date for other areas along the Congaree River in South Carolina that are also above flood stage level, according to a forecast from the National Weather Service.
Moderate flooding is occurring along the portion of the Congaree River that flows through Columbia, the National Weather Service said. Milder flooding is possible in Columbia, but major flooding is also expected in other areas near the Congaree River, including Congaree National Park, according to the National Weather Service.
The river is expected to continue rising for at least another day, if not longer. It could impact Richland, Lexington and Calhoun counties, the National Weather Service said.
Helene flood in SC
The Congaree River isn’t the only body of water in South Carolina affected by the flood warning. The National Weather Service said other areas include:
▪ The Wateree River near Camden affects Kershaw County
▪ The Pee Dee River near Cheraw affects Chesterfield and Marlboro counties
▪ North Fork Edisto River at Orangeburg affects Orangeburg County
▪ The Saluda River at Chappells affects Saluda, Greenwood and Newberry counties
▪ Stevens Creek near Modoc affects Edgefield and McCormick counties
▪ The Wateree River at Lake Wateree affects Lancaster, Fairfield and Kershaw counties
In addition to damage from flooding, objects in the water can also pose a threat.
“Remember, flood water is not clean water; it contains debris, sewage and other pollutants,” the Congaree Riverkeeper said on its Facebook page. “More than 10 sewer overflows have been reported in the Columbia area since Thursday.
Precautions against flooding
▪ Most flood deaths occur in vehicles; never drive on a flooded roadway or around barricades
▪ Caution is advised when walking near riverbanks
▪ Residents and advocates near the river should monitor rising water levels and take action if necessary
Source: National Weather Service
