Fallen trees, washed out dirt roads on Tuesday in Bamberg County

BAMBERG COUNTY, S.C. (WJBF) – The National Weather Service says 1.5 to 3 inches of rain have fallen so far in areas like Bamberg County, turning dirt roads into mud roads. Emergency officials are warning citizens to stay off of them and to stay indoors if possible.

“We’re asking all non-residents to please avoid that area,” said Alisha Moore the public information officer for Bamberg County.

On top of the mud, Briar Creek road had a tree fall, which crews cleared away quickly.

They also responded to a fallen tree on a power line earlier in the day. Public works will work to restore power in case of outages.

“If you do see a downed tree or something and you need a number to report that, you wanna call (803) 245-3000,” Moore said.

Thankfully, the county hasn’t had to close any roads yet. But, plenty of standing water on the roads, they’re bracing for flooding.

“We’re definitely monitoring the area for flooding. Again, dirt roads are gonna be the most impacted areas so it’s critical that residents on those dirt road areas stay inside if they don’t need to go out,” Moore said.

The county’s emergency operations center gave out about 150 sandbags on Monday and have more to give out as the storm progresses.

Officials there are urging anyone who has a non-emergency report or question to call (803) 245-3031.

“We are monitoring areas for flooding, we are monitoring for power outages. If you are in need of flood materials, please come by and grab what you need to protect your home and your business,” Moore said. “Should there be a need for shelter, we are prepared for residents who may need shelter if they experience excessive flooding.”

Bamberg County schools are closed Wednesday and Thursday, and county government offices are closed Wednesday.

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