The City of Columbia and Richland County are making preparations ahead of historic river crests expected on the Congaree River in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene.
According to the National Weather Service the Congaree at Columbia is now forecast to reach major flood stage late Sunday September 29 night and crest at 31.0 feet early Monday afternoon September 30. This crest is near the 2015 value of 31.8 feet. This is likely to affect levels on the Broad River as well.
The Columbia-Richland Fire Department and the Richland County Sheriffs Department have made the joint decision to close all boat ramps on the Congaree and Broad rivers ahead of this event. Citizens are strongly encouraged to obey this order and remain clear of the water.
Local officials along with the Richland County Emergency Management Division (RCEMD) and the National Weather Service are also urging citizens who live along the Congaree River and in low lying areas to prepare for the elevated risk of flooding.
There are no mandatory evacuations in Richland County at this time but emergency officials are asking people to take precautions now. County emergency officials will continue to work with the NWS to monitor Helene’s post-storm impact on the rivers.
Road Closures
Effective immediately Lost Creek Drive is closed from Pond Oak Lane to Lake Front Drive due to flooding. Local traffic only is allowed off of Broad River and Hollingshed.
Park Closures
All City of Columbia Parks & Recreation Greenway Parks are closed to the public for safety precautions. This includes Riverfront Park North and South as well as the Saluda Riverwalk.
