Flood Advisory Issued for Lexington, South Carolina

News Summary

Lexington, South Carolina is currently under a flood advisory due to significant rainfall causing potential minor flooding, particularly in low-lying areas. Doppler radar reports indicate heavy thunderstorms have delivered 1 to 2 inches of rain, with an additional 1 to 2 inches expected. Residents are advised to take safety precautions and avoid flooded roadways as flash flooding poses a risk.

Lexington, South Carolina is currently under a flood advisory that is set to remain in effect until 3:15 AM EDT on Saturday. The alert, issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) at 12:07 AM EDT, follows significant rainfall that has resulted in the potential for minor flooding in low-lying and poorly-drained areas.

Doppler radar reports heavy thunderstorms affecting Lexington County, delivering rainfall between 1 and 2 inches in the region. Forecasts predict an additional 1 to 2 inches of rain could fall, which is likely to exacerbate existing conditions and lead to further minor flooding.

The advisory specifically affects several key locations within and around Lexington County, including:

• Columbia
• Lexington
• Cayce
• Irmo
• Springdale
• Highway 6 at Lake Murray Dam
• Red Bank
• Oak Grove
• St. Andrews
• South Congaree
• Pine Ridge
• Columbia Metro Airport
• Gilbert
• Summit
• Bundrick Island
• Barr Lake
• Pine Island
• Red Bank Sports Complex
• Shull Island
• Siesta Cove Marina

Key highways affected by the flooding conditions include Interstate 26 near mile marker 104 and Interstate 20 in South Carolina, particularly between mile markers 50 and 60.

Residents are urged to take safety precautions, including:

• Never driving through flooded roadways or around barricades, following the motto “Turn around, don’t drown.”
• Moving to higher ground if located in flood-prone areas.
• Securing homes by locking doors and disconnecting utilities if time allows.
• Avoiding basements or rooms where electrical appliances may be submerged.
• Staying away from water that may be electrically charged.
• Calling 911 for assistance if trapped due to rising waters.

Flash flooding remains a significant risk due to heavy rainfall from thunderstorms, with rainfall rates recorded at 0.75 to 1 inch per hour. Emergency management has reported several instances of water rescues related to flash flooding, particularly in urban areas and along busy highways.

The regions most susceptible to flooding include urban centers such as Columbia, West Columbia, Cayce, Irmo, and Forest Acres, as well as locations like Dentsville, St. Andrews, Arcadia Lakes, and the SC State Fair Grounds. Locations such as Riverbanks Zoo and Columbia International University have also experienced the impacts of flooding.

This advisory highlights the enhanced risks posed by poor drainage systems and low-lying areas across Lexington County. It is crucial for individuals to stay vigilant, as hydroplaning can occur when water prevents vehicles from making proper contact with the road, leading to dangerous driving conditions.

Residents are encouraged to be proactive in their response to these conditions and to continuously monitor updates from appropriate authorities throughout the duration of the flood advisory.

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Additional Resources

• Herald Online
• Wikipedia: Flood
• Island Packet
• Google Search: flood advisory Lexington South Carolina
• The State
• Google Scholar: flood management
• Boston 25 News
• Encyclopedia Britannica: flooding
• Kentucky.com
• Google News: flash flood warning