Public safety alert – Roads & boat ramps to close in Columbia & Richland County ahead of post-storm river crest

Public safety agencies with the City of Columbia and Richland County are making preparations ahead of historic river crests expected on the Congaree River in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene.

According to the National Weather Service the Congaree at Columbia is now forecast to reach major flood stage late Sunday night and crest at 31.0 feet early Monday afternoon. This crest is near the 2015 value of 31.8 feet. This is likely to affect levels on the Broad River as well. 

The Columbia-Richland Fire Department and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department have made the joint decision to close all boat ramps on the Congaree and Broad rivers ahead of this event. Citizens are strongly encouraged to obey this order and remain clear of the water.

Road Closures

Effective immediately Lost Creek Drive is closed from Pond Oak Lane to Lake Front Drive due to flooding.  Local traffic only is allowed off of Broad River and Hollingshed.

River Access Park Closures 

All City of Columbia Parks & Recreation Greenway Parks are closed to the public for safety precautions. This includes Riverfront Park, North and South, as well as the Saluda Riverwalk.