News Summary
Residents in Riverland Park, Cayce, SC, are advised to evacuate as the Congaree River levels surge past 28 feet, with forecasts predicting a crest of 31 feet on Monday. Mayor Elise Partin has highlighted the significance of these voluntary evacuations due to potentially severe flooding reminiscent of 2015. Local authorities have already informed over 100 residents and closed parks and boat ramps as the community prepares for the anticipated crisis, focusing on safety and support for those affected.
Cayce, SC – Residents living in Riverland Park have been urged to evacuate as the Congaree River has risen above 28 feet and is forecasted to crest at 31 feet on Monday at 2 p.m. Cayce Mayor Elise Partin has emphasized the importance of this voluntary evacuation in light of the rising water levels, which are projected to exceed flood levels witnessed during the devastating floods of 2015.
The Congaree River reaches a moderate flood stage at 24 feet and enters a major flood stage at 30 feet. The ongoing flooding has already impacted surrounding communities, with Cayce officials conducting door-to-door notifications for over 100 residents in Riverland Park due to the dangerous conditions. Floodwaters have covered local boat landings and riverwalks, prompting a higher sense of urgency among local authorities.
In addition to the evacuation orders, the city has closed local parks and boat ramps along the Congaree and Broad rivers, and residents in various neighborhoods in the area have been advised to stay vigilant as higher flooding levels are anticipated. Additional issues arise with potential sewer overflows due to the high water threat. Residents have expressed emotional distress over flooding risks, recalling previous traumatic experiences from past hurricanes.
As the river levels continue to be closely monitored, indications suggest that further flooding could exceed projections, particularly if additional spill gates are opened at the Lake Murray Dam. Dominion Energy has already opened one spill gate to manage water levels amid maintenance on one of the dam’s units.
In light of the hurricane’s impact earlier in the week, over 37,600 people in Lexington County have been reported without power. The flooding situation has prompted local schools in the Columbia area to announce closures for September 30, 2024. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has reported closures of some streets in the affected areas and has provided cautions for emergency services operating near rising waters.
Following the state of emergency declared due to Hurricane Helene, President Joe Biden has authorized federal assistance for affected counties. This includes grants for housing and repair needs to aid recovery efforts. Price gouging laws have also been activated to protect consumers during this tumultuous time.
The Cayce emergency services are actively engaged in assisting residents during this crisis, ensuring that evacuations are executed safely while offering support to those impacted by the flooding. As conditions continue to evolve, local authorities remain vigilant in their efforts to manage the consequences of Hurricane Helene and the resulting flooding.
Meanwhile, the Capital City/Lake Murray Country (CCLMC) Visitor’s Center will host a Spring Porch Party and Gift Shop Sale on May 8 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This event will provide a variety of gift items and a discount, coinciding with National Travel and Tourism Week to celebrate the vital role of tourism in South Carolina. The Lake Murray Country Gift Shop may be a suitable destination for Mother’s Day shopping as the visitor center continues its regular operations on a modified schedule during the ongoing crisis.
This evolving situation with the Congaree River and Hurricane Helene’s aftermath underscores the importance of community preparedness and safety in the face of natural disasters.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Weather Alert: Strong Storms Expected in Columbia, SC
Severe Weather and Heavy Rain Expected in Columbia
Irmo Man Indicted for Threatening to Kill President Trump
West Columbia Parks Reopen After Hurricane Helene
Tornado Strikes Over Lake Murray in Lexington County
Columbia Couple Addresses Sewage Crisis in Legal Action
Severe Weather Warnings Issued for Columbia and Lexington Counties
Lexington Gears Up for Dining on the Dam Event
Columbia Residents: Saluda Riverwalk Trail Closure for Construction
Additional Resources
- The State: Cayce Residents Urged to Evacuate Due to Rising Congaree River
- Wikipedia: Congaree River
- Post and Courier: Hurricane Helene’s Impact on Congaree River
- Google Search: Hurricane Helene
- Cola Daily: Helene Aftermath Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: 2015 South Carolina Floods
- SW Lex Ledger: Commercial Structure Gutted by Fire
- Google News: Cayce SC
- The State: Weather News Updates
- Google Scholar: Flooding in South Carolina
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington 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 the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
