South Carolina placed under a flood warning until 3 a.m. Thursday, says the NWS

The creation of this content included the use of AI based on templates created, reviewed and edited by journalists in the newsroom. Read more on our AI policy here.

On Tuesday at 5:24 p.m. a flood warning was released by the NWS Columbia SC valid from 6 p.m. until Thursday 3:24 a.m. The warning is for Greenwood, Newberry and Saluda counties.

The NWS informs, "Minor flooding is forecast for Saluda River at Saluda River at Chappells."

"At 14.0 feet, Lowlands around and downstream from Chappells become flooded. Cattle grazing river bottomland should be moved to higher ground. At 16.0 feet, Extensive farmland and river bottomland around and downstream from Chappells become flooded," describes the NWS. "Most flooding deaths occur in vehicles. Never drive through a flooded roadway or around barricades. Turn around, don't drown. Motorists should not attempt to drive around barricades or drive cars through flooded areas. The next statement will be issued late tonight at 5:30 a.m."

This warning is in effect until Thursday at 3:24 a.m.

Protect yourself during a flood with these tips from the NWS

If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances. Don't go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, get out. Stay out of water that may have electricity in it. Don't walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible.

When heavy rain occurs, there is a risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone regions. It is important to never attempt to drive through water on the road, regardless of how deep it appears. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles.

Rainy weather driving tips

• Turn on your headlights - Even when it's light outside, using headlights can improve visibility and alert other drivers to your presence.
• While on the road - Opt for the middle lanes and remain on higher ground. Rainwater tends to gather along the road edges.
• Avoid puddles - Driving into puddles or low rainwater areas can lead to vehicles hydroplaning or losing control.
• Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
• Avoid flooded areas - When encountering a flooded road, do a U-turn and head back. The strong currents from flash floods can pull drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also negatively affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.

What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning is when a vehicle starts uncontrollably sliding on wet roads.

This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is primarily caused by three factors:

1. Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
2. Water depth - The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn't matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
3. Tire tread depth - Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.

In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know:

• Ease off the accelerator - Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
• Turn into the skid - Turning into the skid can help the vehicle's tires realign to regain control.
• Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
• Brake gently as needed - Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.

Source: The National Weather Service

United Robots South Carolina

This story was originally published May 26, 2026 at 5:28 PM.