State of Emergency Declared in Columbia Amid Flooding
Columbia, S.C. – A State of Emergency was declared by Governor Henry McMaster as heavy rainfall has caused significant flooding in the eastern Midlands and sections of the Lowcountry. This decision, outlined in Executive Order 2024-33, is aimed at enhancing South Carolina’s response capabilities to the ongoing crises.
The Reason for the Emergency
The emergency declaration comes in the wake of severe rainfalls that began on November 6. A weather front, stalled over the southeastern United States, combined with deep tropical moisture, has unleashed persistent rainfall across the region. This weather phenomenon has resulted in widespread reports of rainfall totaling between seven to ten inches in many areas, with some locations experiencing as much as 15 inches of rain.
Impact of the Flooding
As a direct consequence of this rainfall, river flooding is anticipated to continue along portions of the Edisto River through next week. The flooding has caused numerous road closures, affecting daily commuting and travel. Governor McMaster stated, “Team South Carolina has been responding to the impacts of flooding and subsequent road closures in portions of the state throughout the day.” This response includes deploying essential tools and resources to ensure the safety and well-being of residents.
Public Safety Advisory
Officials are actively advising residents to avoid driving in areas affected by the flooding. This warning is particularly crucial during night hours, when visibility is low and hazards may not be readily apparent. “Never drive through flooded roadways or around barricades,” authorities emphasize. Such precautions are vital to prevent accidents and ensure public safety.
The Broader Impact on Communities
The effects of the flooding are being felt across multiple communities, as local emergency services work tirelessly to secure areas at risk and provide assistance to those in need. Emergency shelters have been set up to accommodate displaced individuals and families, ensuring that residents are safe during this challenging time.
Weather Forecast
The National Weather Service is continuously monitoring the situation and providing updates to keep the public informed. As rainfall is expected to linger, residents are encouraged to stay updated on local forecasts, radar, and weather alerts through available resources.
Moving Forward
Governor McMaster’s declaration of a State of Emergency reflects a proactive approach to manage the crisis effectively. The focus remains on enhancing response efforts while prioritizing the safety of all South Carolinians.
As the state navigates through this challenging situation, community members are encouraged to support one another and remain vigilant about their safety. The cooperation between local, state, and federal agencies is vital for an organized response to the flooding crisis.
Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as conditions continue to evolve in the coming days.
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
The HERE Greenville Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Greenville community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Greenville Our team includes lifelong Greenville residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sales in the Heritage Historic District 17 , Greenville’s textile and railroad heritage 2 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Greenville Technical College programs) 27 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
