Palmetto State News

South Carolina's state agencies and local partners continue to respond to Tropical Storm Debby. As of 2 p.m. today, the storm, located 50 miles southeast of Charleston, is expected to bring significant rainfall, gusty winds, and flooding to low-lying areas over the next 48 hours. River flooding is also an increasing concern.

"We have been lucky so far, but we are not out of the woods yet," said Governor Henry McMaster. "One way to look at this is we are in the second act of a three-act play. Heavy rain and flooding are still expected to continue over the next few days, especially in the Pee Dee. It is important to remain vigilant and not let your guard down."

As of the latest advisory from the National Hurricane Center, Debby is moving at 3 mph with maximum sustained winds of 60 mph. The storm is projected to make landfall somewhere along the central or northern coast of South Carolina later tonight or tomorrow morning. Heavy rainfall and localized amounts up to 6-8 inches are expected along South Carolina’s coastal areas, particularly in the northeast/Pee Dee area, with lower amounts impacting inland areas. Flash flooding remains a significant concern for many parts of the state, particularly in urban areas and regions with poor drainage. River flooding will remain a threat through the weekend, with particular concern for major flood stages at Little Pee Dee River near Galivants Ferry and Edisto River near Givhans Ferry early next week.

Many coastal counties are reporting flooding and blocked roads.

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) has fielded 207 requests for assistance. Twelve general population shelters are currently in operation; while some are expected to close soon, others are on standby and more will open as needed. Decisions to open shelters are made at the local level.

Road safety remains a top priority, with 424 state law enforcement personnel patrolling from the Midlands to the coast over a 24-hour period from 7 a.m. Wednesday to 7 a.m. Thursday. The South Carolina National Guard has 284 service members on state active duty. The South Carolina Department of Transportation has shifted to 24-hour operations with approximately 2,400 personnel mobilized. State parks along the coast remain closed, and nineteen county government offices are closed.

Residents in low-lying areas should consider moving to higher ground for the duration of the storm. It is advised that neighbors check on each other, especially those who may need extra assistance, and bring pets inside.

Residents should avoid unnecessary travel due to potential road hazards such as standing water, downed power lines or trees, lack of visibility caused by sudden downpours, and flash flooding resulting from creeks or rivers spilling over their banks into roadways.

It is important to stay out of floodwaters as they contain harmful bacteria, wastewater, oil and fuel, hazardous materials, and other contaminants posing health risks.

For updates on Tropical Storm Debby residents can call SCEMD’s hotline at 1-866-246-0133 or visit www.scemd.org for more information.