FLORENCE, S.C. — Hurricane Joaquin continues to hammer the Bahamas this morning and is still expected to move northward and stay far off the coast of S.C. according to the latest National Weather Service forecasts.
The main threat for Florence County continues to be rainfall induced flooding. According to a conference call with the NWS at 9 a.m., specific rainfall amounts are still uncertain, but the county is forecasted to receive between 6”-8”.
Rainfall projections for Florence County municipalities by day:
Friday: Florence 3.36” Pamplico 3.17” Lake City 3.33”
Saturday: Florence 2.02” Pamplico 2.03” Lake City 2.21”
Sunday: Florence .77” Pamplico .82” Lake City 1.17”
River level projections for Florence County:
Black Creek: Current 5’.46” Flood Stage 10’ Crest 13’.9” on Oct 5
Lynches River: Current 3’.5” Flood Stage 14’ Crest 10’.9” on Oct 7
Pee Dee: Current 5’.7” Flood Stage 19’ Crest 22’.8” on Oct 7
If we receive the forecasted rainfall amounts, hazards such as flooded roadways, washed out culverts, failure of earthen dams and power outages caused by falling trees are possible and should be anticipated. We have identified areas that have been prone to flooding in the past and will have crews check those areas during the rain event.
We are continuing to monitor the situation and are prepared to activate our Emergency Operations Center should the need arise. In addition, Public Works crews are in the process of checking all branch crossings and known low areas and urban crews are checking Subdivisions to alleviate any problems with catch basins and piping.
Please remember to always practice these safety tips during any kind of flooding events:
• Be aware of potential flash flooding. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move to higher ground. Do not wait to be told to move.
• If time allows, prepare your home for a flood by moving essential items to an upper floor, bring in outdoor furniture, disconnect electrical appliances and be prepared to turn off the gas, electricity and water.
•
Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• Do not drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely. You and the vehicle could be quickly swept away. One foot of water can cause your car to float off the roadway.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the most recent information as it becomes available via the NWS.
—Info in the story above is from a submitted Press Release
