City cautions drivers to avoid flood prone areas

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — The City of Columbia urges drivers to use caution when driving during severe weather. The following streets and intersections are prone to flooding during heavy rain events. Please avoid these areas during and immediately after heavy rains. Main and Whaley Gervais and Laurens Blossom and Henderson Blossom and Saluda Harden and Santee Monroe and Maple Wheat and Amherst Adger and Devine Bull and Laurel Franklin and Marion Duncan (entire block) Monroe (entire block) If you encounter a flooded street or intersection, turn around; do not attempt to drive through it. Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide many hazards (i.e. sharp objects, washed out road surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals, etc). A vehicle caught in swiftly moving water can be swept away in a matter of seconds. Twelve inches of water can float a car or small SUV and 18 inches of water can carry away large vehicles. Stay away from storm damaged areas to include damaged or downed trees and power lines to keep from putting yourself at risk from the effects of severe thunderstorms. Continue to listen to a National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Weather Radio or to local radio and television stations for updated information or instructions, as access to roads or some parts of the community may be blocked. Help people who may require special assistance, such as infants, children and the elderly or disabled. Stay away from downed power lines and report them immediately. To assist with keeping the storm drainage system working properly, Public Works asks yard debris and other items not be placed adjacent or next to drainage structures. If you notice a storm drain blocked by debris, please notify the Public Works Street Division at 545-3780 during regular business hours and Customer Care at 545-3300 after 5:00 pm.