High River Levels Persist Following Hurricane Helene, But Major Bridges to Remain Open

Despite elevated river levels in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has confirmed that all major bridges in the region will remain open, including the Blossom Street Bridge and the Gervais Street Bridge.

On Sunday, Cayce police officers went door-to-door in the Riverland Park neighborhood, informing more than 100 residents of a voluntary evacuation due to rising water levels. Cayce officials stressed that the evacuation only affected Riverland Park residents, and no additional evacuations are expected as of 2 p.m. Monday.

The 12th Street Extension near the Amazon Distribution Center remains closed due to flooding. Additionally, the Cayce Riverwalk, Timmerman Trail, the West Columbia Riverwalk Park and Amphitheater, and the Moffatt Street Entrance to the Riverwalk also remain closed.

As of noon on Monday, Dominion Energy reported that 235 households in Cayce are still without power. However, the Lake Murray Dam is operating within normal levels, and water inflows from South Carolina’s Upstate and North Carolina into the state’s river systems are being closely monitored. The Congaree River level was at 30.53 feet as of noon Monday, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

Amidst swirling rumors, city officials have confirmed that local water and wastewater plants are not flooded and are fully operational. Ashley Hunter, the City of Cayce Public Information Officer, reminded residents to rely on official sources for accurate information: “During times of heightened concern, misinformation is easily spread. You can always find factual updates on any of our official information sources.”

Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring official channels for updates as river levels are closely watched.