News Summary
As heavy rainfall continues, residents in Greenwood and Newberry counties are warned of potential flooding along the Saluda River. The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning, advising individuals to monitor rising water levels and to avoid flooded roads. The warning is effective until Monday at 1 a.m. Residents are urged to prioritize safety and evacuate if necessary, taking precautions against the dangers of floodwaters.
Flood Warning Issued for Greenwood and Newberry Counties
As the rain continues to fall, residents in Greenwood and Newberry counties are keeping a close eye on the rising waters of the Saluda River. An updated flood warning was announced early Saturday morning, where the National Weather Service (NWS) in Columbia, SC, alerted everyone to the potential hazards from the encroaching floodwaters.
What to Expect
Minor flooding is on the horizon, particularly at Chappells along the Saluda River. When the river reaches a level of 14.0 feet, areas near and downstream from Chappells may see lowland flooding. For those with cattle grazing in the river bottomland, it’s crucial to move them to higher ground to prevent any unnecessary risks.
Timing of the Warning
This flood warning is set to remain in effect until Monday at 1 a.m., so if you live in affected areas or frequently visit, it’s time to pay extra attention. The NWS is expected to provide another update this afternoon at 1:30 p.m..
Safety First!
Residents and adventurers alike are reminded that most flooding fatalities happen in vehicles. With this in mind, the NWS strongly advises against driving through flooded roadways or around barricades. The popular phrase to remember is, “Turn around, don’t drown.”
This is a crucial time for people living near the river, so monitoring the rising water levels and taking quick, necessary actions is essential. If you find yourself living or camping in flood-prone areas, it’s best to seek higher ground immediately. Follow any evacuation orders you receive with diligence!
If You Need to Evacuate
In case of an evacuation, remember to lock your homes and, if you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances. Safety is the top priority! Also, be cautious about entering any basements or electrical rooms where water might be present. If there are any unsettling sounds like buzzing or crackling, get out of there right away!
Flood Water Dangers
It’s important to avoid entering water that could potentially be electrified. Even a small amount of moving water can be deceivingly dangerous. Did you know that just 6 inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet? And 12 inches of fast-moving water can sweep away most vehicles!
Driving Risks
Drivers should be particularly careful about hydroplaning, which is when your vehicle loses traction on wet roads. This can happen when water accumulates in front of your tires. Hydroplaning often results from water buildup combined with the weight of the vehicle. If you encounter any flooded roadways, it’s better to wait it out and not risk your safety.
What to Do if Trapped
If you do become trapped by rising water, try to move to the highest point possible and reach out for help by calling 911. Being prepared and educated about these risks can make a big difference as the floodwaters begin to rise.
Final Thoughts
With the threat of flooding looming over Greenwood and Newberry counties, it’s essential for everyone to take precautions seriously. Keep your loved ones safe, stay informed, and above all, put safety first. Remember, it’s always better to be cautious and prepared than to find yourself in a tricky situation.
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Flooding Updates
- Wikipedia: Flood
- WLTX: Helene Heavy Rainfall
- Google Search: Flood Preparedness
- Greenville Online: Helene’s Impact
- Google Scholar: Flood Safety
- Lexington Chronicle: Hurricane Helene Death Toll
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricane Helene
