Georgetown County Braces for Sunday Morning Flash Flood Warning Following Heavy Rainfall
On Sunday, October 12, Georgetown County faced a severe flash flood warning issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Wilmington, NC. The warning, effective from 8:57 a.m. until 11 a.m., followed the heavy rainfall that saturated the area with 5 to 8 inches of rain.
Georgetown County Flash Flood Warning Details
The flash flood warning affected several locations within the county, including:
- Georgetown
- DeBordieu Colony
- Yawkey South Island
- Winyah Bay Entrance
- Graves
- Georgetown Memorial Hospital
The NWS reported that persistent rainfall could add another 1 to 3 inches, heightening the risk of life-threatening flash floods. Urban areas, highways, and underpasses were particularly at risk.
Safety Precautions and Recommendations
The NWS emphasized the need for deterrence from driving through flooded roads, urging residents to turn around and avoid drowning dangers. Flash floods in the area are notably dangerous at night when water depth is difficult to assess. The NWS warned that most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles.
If you experience flooding, the NWS advises:
- Move to higher ground.
- Evacuate if instructed and lock your home.
- Disconnect utilities when possible.
- Avoid basements where electrical issues may arise.
- If trapped, reach a higher point and call emergency services.
Driving Tips During Heavy Rain
The risk of hydroplaning is significant during heavy rainfall. Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle loses traction, skidding uncontrollably on water-covered roads. Below are tips to mitigate this:
- Reduce speed to maintain tire traction.
- Avoid driving through puddles and deep water.
- Check tire tread depth for road grip.
Maintain safe driving practices by keeping a distance from large vehicles and using headlights for visibility. Opt for middle lanes on higher ground to avoid water accumulation at road edges.
For more safety advice and updates, continue following Emegypt, your trusted source for local news and weather.
