News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for Abbeville and Greenwood Counties due to heavy rainfall. The warning is effective until 9:15 a.m., with rainfall amounts between 2 and 3.5 inches reported. Residents in affected areas, including Greenwood and Abbeville, are urged to take immediate safety precautions and evacuate if necessary.
Flash Flood Warning Issued for Abbeville and Greenwood Counties
Abbeville, SC – A flash flood warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for Abbeville and Greenwood Counties, effective until 9:15 a.m. on Tuesday. This warning follows heavy rainfall across the area, with Doppler radar indicating that between 2 and 3.5 inches of rain fell since 3 a.m., and additional rainfall of up to 1 inch is possible.
The NWS indicates that flash flooding is either ongoing or expected to begin shortly, impacting small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, underpasses, and other poor drainage and low-lying spots. Significant areas expected to experience flooding include Long Cane Creek, McCord Creek, Keller Branch, as well as regions in Greenwood and Abbeville known for poor drainage.
Affected Areas and Communities
The warning specifically covers the communities of Greenwood, Abbeville, Ware Shoals, Cokesbury, Hodges, Shoals Junction, and Promised Land. Residents and campers in flood-prone areas are urgently advised to seek higher ground immediately and to adhere to any evacuation instructions given. Precautionary measures include securing homes by locking doors, disconnecting utilities and appliances, and avoiding any flooded areas, particularly basements or rooms with submerged electrical outlets.
Safety Measures During Flash Floods
The NWS strongly recommends that residents evacuate if they observe sparks or hear unusual electrical sounds, and they should steer clear of any water that might be electrically charged. Furthermore, it is vital to avoid walking through floodwaters, as even a small amount—just 6 inches—can pose a serious risk. Individuals trapped by rising water should aim for the highest point available and contact emergency services by dialing 911.
Drivers are also urged to heed the warning of not driving through flooded roads, as even seemingly shallow water can be deceptive. Just 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can sweep away most vehicles, leading to potential accidents and injuries. The NWS has called attention to the dangers of hydroplaning, which is the uncontrollable sliding of a vehicle on wet roads, particularly when water accumulates more rapidly than the vehicle’s weight can displace it. Hydroplaning can occur due to three main factors highlighted by the NWS.
Context and Conclusion
The current flash flood warning underscores the need for vigilance during severe weather events. Weather conditions can change swiftly, making it crucial for residents to stay informed and act according to safety advisories. The warning is expected to remain in effect until 9:15 a.m. on the day of issuance, and residents are reminded to monitor local weather updates for any changes that may impact their safety.
In conclusion, the NWS’s warning serves as a decisive reminder of the hazards posed by flash flooding. Community members are encouraged to take necessary precautions to safeguard their lives and property in the face of this natural threat.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Extreme Heat Wave Sweeps Across the Northeast U.S.
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Severe Flash Flooding Strikes Western Virginia
Texas Continues Fight Against Flood Disaster
Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Flash Flood
- WYFF4
- Google Search: Flash Flooding Safety Tips
- Fox Carolina
- Google Scholar: Flood Management
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- Charlotte Observer
- Google News: Severe Weather Alerts
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood 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 Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
