CLEMSON, S.C. — This publication introduces different types of flooding and discusses major historical hurricanes and flooding events that have caused significant damage and fatalities in South Carolina. The content of this article is suitable for state stakeholders and officials seeking to gain insights and knowledge to mitigate flooding impacts and consequences.
South Carolina is located in the southeastern portion of the United States with two major regions, the Piedmont Plateau to the west and the Coastal Plain to the east. Additionally, the northwest corner of the state includes the Blue Ridge, which covers portions of Upstate counties including Oconee, Pickens, Greenville, and Spartanburg. South Carolina enjoys a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The state has eight major river basins, including the Broad, Catawba, Edisto, Pee Dee, Salkehatchie, Saluda, Santee, and Savannah (figure 1), extending into neighboring states Georgia, North Carolina, and Virginia. Like many other states in the southern and southeastern United States, South Carolina is prone to catastrophic floods.1 Flooded roads and homes have become a familiar sight in many parts of the state, particularly in coastal regions. Data shows that these flood events are happening much more frequently and will likely intensify in the future.2 Flooding could occur more frequently and more intensely for homes in a flood zone. Additionally, areas that previously did not experience flooding now have an increased threat of flood damage.
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–Clemson Extension Land Grant Press