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Columbia Issues State of Emergency Amid Severe Flooding Crisis

Flooded streets with emergency response vehicles and signage.

Columbia Declares State of Emergency Due to Severe Flooding

Columbia, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster has declared a State of Emergency in response to ongoing flooding affecting the eastern Midlands and parts of the Lowcountry in South Carolina. The executive order, identified as Executive Order 2024-33, aims to enhance the state’s capability to manage the severe weather impacts.

What Happened

The flooding comes after a weather front stalled in the southeastern United States, accompanied by deep tropical moisture. This weather system has been causing significant rainfall across the state since November 6. According to reports from the National Weather Service, many areas have received between seven to ten inches of rain, with localized regions experiencing up to 15 inches.

Where the Flooding Occurred

As of now, the flooding has specifically impacted areas in the eastern Midlands and the Lowcountry. It is particularly severe along the Edisto River, where officials anticipate that flooding will persist until the following week. The rainfall has resulted in numerous road closures, making travel hazardous for residents.

Response from Authorities

Governor McMaster emphasized that “Team South Carolina has been responding to the impacts of flooding and subsequent road closures in portions of the state throughout the day.” The declaration of a State of Emergency is intended to provide local and state response teams with all necessary resources to deal with this challenging situation.

Safety Measures for Residents

Looking Ahead

As the state manages the immediate effects of flooding, attention is also focused on the forecast. Continued monitoring of conditions will be essential as recovery and response efforts are implemented across the affected regions. The state is prepared to continue its response as long as needed to ensure the safety of residents.

Residents are advised to stay tuned for updates regarding road conditions, weather forecasts, and community safety information. It is expected that local emergency services will issue further guidance as they assess the ongoing situation.