A flood watch is in effect for Columbus County as tropical moisture heads into the area today and tomorrow.
The National Weather service is calling for two to four inches of rain in some areas. Meteorologist Christopher Cawley said two to three inches in likely in Columbus, with some spots seeing more especially in the eastern part of the county.
“We’ll see less rain coverage on Sunday,” he said in his CCN/Freedom Insurance Weather Forecast, and we should finally dry out by Monday. Then it turns hot again.”
Whiteville Emergency Services Director Hal Lowder Jr. said the city stormwater crew has been checking drains ahead of the anticipated rainfall.
“We really do need a good rain,” he said, “but just not so much at once. When it all comes at once, there will likely be some flooding in some areas. People just need to be aware and get ready.”
The city and the Department of Transportation have been hard at work on a number of stormwater improvement projects, Lowder said. The roundabout project at Madison, Lee and Franklin streets includes drainage work, as does the Madison Street Park. Plans are also in place by the DOT to improve drainage on South Madison near Radio Station Road.
In the immediate timeframe, however, Lowder said motorists need to heed high water signs and barricades.
“We say it every time,” he said, “but do not drive through water that is crossing the road. It only takes a few inches of water for a car to float. Plus, you’re creating a wake that damages other people’s property. There could be scours or washouts that you can’t see. There’s no reason to endanger your life or someone else’s by driving through high water.”
