Fairfield and Newberry counties placed under a flash flood warning until 1 a.m. Tuesday
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A flash flood warning was issued by the NWS Columbia SC on Monday at 10:52 p.m. in effect until Tuesday at 1:45 a.m. for Fairfield and Newberry counties.
"At 10:52 p.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1 and 2.5 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly," according to the NWS. "Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas."
Locations impacted by the warning include Newberry, VC Summer Nuclear Station, Whitmire, Blair, Newberry College, Newberry County Airport, Monticello, Pomaria, US-176, SC-34 Crossroads, Enoree Ranger District Office, Maybington Fire Station, Henderson Island and Newberry County Detention Center and Bush River Fire Station. This includes Interstate 26 between mile markers 62 and 79.
The NWS comments, "Most flooding deaths occur in vehicles. Never drive through a flooded roadway or around barricades. Turn around, don't drown. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads."
This warning is in effect until Tuesday at 1:45 a.m.
Ways to stay safe during a flood according to the NWS
If you reside in a flood-prone area or you are camping in a low-lying area, move to higher ground. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home before departing. If time allows, disconnect utilities and appliances. Avoid basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity and do not attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet. If you become trapped by moving water, seek the highest possible point and contact emergency services by calling 911.
During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the NWS.
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.
- Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control
- Don't tail large vehicles closely - Trucks or buses can kick up a water spray that obstructs visibility.
- Avoid flooded zones - If you encounter a flooded road, make a U-turn and go back. The powerful currents of flash floods can carry drivers off the road. Driving through deep water can also damage 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. The three main causes of hydroplaning are:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 July 13, 2026 at 10:56 PM.