Palmetto State News

Governor Henry McMaster has declared a State of Emergency in response to the flooding affecting South Carolina's eastern Midlands and parts of the Lowcountry. The declaration, formalized through Executive Order 2024-33, activates the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan to support current and future state response efforts.

"Team South Carolina has been responding to the impacts of flooding and subsequent road closures in portions of the state throughout the day," stated Governor McMaster. "The State of Emergency will ensure that our response teams have every tool at their disposal to continue their efforts."

The severe weather conditions began on November 6, 2024, due to a stalled front interacting with tropical moisture over the southeastern United States. This resulted in heavy rainfall across South Carolina, causing significant flash and riverine flooding.

According to reports from the National Weather Service, areas within the eastern Midlands have experienced widespread rainfall ranging from 7 to 10 inches, with some locations receiving up to 15 inches. River flooding is expected to persist along sections of the Edisto River into next week. However, no significant additional rainfall is anticipated in the coming days.

Residents are advised against driving through affected areas, particularly at night, and are cautioned not to drive through flooded roads or around barricades. For guidance on flood safety measures before, during, and after such events, residents can visit scemd.org.