Bamberg, S.C. Braces for Flood Recovery as States Declare Emergencies
The sleepy town of Bamberg, South Carolina, is no stranger to rain, but the last few days have left residents grappling with a different kind of challenge. As catastrophic flooding hit the area, both South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster and Georgia Governor Brian Kemp have stepped in to help, declaring states of emergency in affected counties.
Water, Water Everywhere!
It’s a surreal scene on the streets of Bamberg where, what should be roads, resemble lakes after what felt like a never-ending downpour. “We live in a swamp,” shared local resident Paul Eubanks, offering a smile even through the chaos. “Most of Bamberg County is in a swampy area, but not like this!” He describes two nights of relentless rain, leaving water levels rising alarmingly.
Residents saw between 7-10 inches of rain, with certain spots collecting astonishing amounts up to 15 inches. It’s no wonder the Edisto River is predicted to keep rising through next week!
A State of Emergency
In a swift move to tackle the crisis, McMaster activated the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan, allowing emergency teams to have every tool they need at their disposal. “The state of emergency will ensure that our response teams have every tool at their disposal to continue their efforts,” he remarked. Locally, the state of emergency in Georgia applies to counties like Emanuel, Jefferson, and Screven.
Schools Caught in the Rains
Unfortunately, the flooding has disrupted education as well, forcing school closures in Orangeburg County and eLearning days in Bamberg. “Thursday and Friday were tough days for students,” adorned by parents scrambling to adjust plans and schedules amidst the chaos.
In Orangeburg, the blocked roads have led to a significant traffic nightmare, with some areas facing severe washouts. The notorious intersection at University Parkway and Vaucluse Road has been closed, leaving many commuting from one side of town to the other with no easy solution. Those in Emanuel County faced similar frustrations with the closure of the bridge on Highway 80 at 15 Mile Creek.
Storm Relief & Recovery Efforts
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) is on the ground, taking the initiative to assess the damages with boots on the ground. Employees have been visiting homes in the hardest-hit neighborhoods, often where water levels have reached alarming highs. Alisha Moore, public information officer for Bamberg County, mentioned the burden of dealing with repeated weather disruptions, “We never fully recovered from Debbie because right after Debbie, Helene came.”
Residents have learned to stay vigilant, knowing their local maps almost by heart. Eubanks points out that streets like Half Moon and Sweet Pea are notorious for flooding, “We’re constantly trying to find funding to help with drainage, but these things take time.”
Right on the Edge
Bamberg County is fighting an uphill battle. Many families are feeling the emotional toll of devastation after losing outbuildings and facing potential damage underneath their houses. However, Eubanks, who values his community, is grateful his family is safe. “We’re on fairly high ground, but our neighbors down near the Hunters Chapel Community have homes in the water now, and that’s heart-wrenching to see.”
The reminder from the emergency responders resonates: Avoid driving through flooded roads! Safety comes first, and many believe they will recover as a community, rolling up their sleeves to get the job done, one step at a time. “You have to put things in priority. It’s frustrating because you see so many things that need to get done,” Eubanks said determinedly.
As Bamberg, S.C., and surrounding areas continue to tackle the effects of this relentless rain, residents band together to lift each other’s spirits and tackle challenges that come their way.
