Congaree River Flood Warning for Calhoun, Lexington, and Richland, SC

What’s happening and where

A National Weather Service Flood Warning remains in effect this morning, Wednesday, October 14, 2026, for the Congaree River at two locations: at Congaree National Park near Gadsden (affecting Calhoun and Richland) and at Carolina Eastman (affecting Calhoun, Richland, and Lexington). The statement was issued at 3:54 AM EDT and confirms the warning continues for these river points. Read the NWS text summary naming the affected locations.

Why it matters for homeowners: river flooding is different from street ponding after a storm. Even if the weather turns sunny, elevated river stages can push water into low areas, trails, and access points along the Congaree for hours or days after rain moves out.

How to read river stages on the Congaree

For the Congaree River at Columbia, official categories are: minor flood at 19 feet, moderate at 24 feet, and major at 30 feet. Those thresholds help translate a hydrograph into likely effects along low-lying areas near the river. See the NOAA gauge page for the Congaree at Columbia.

Two addresses a block apart can see different outcomes at the same stage. Small changes in elevation, setback from the river, and how water backs up through nearby creeks can shift whether water reaches a driveway, crawlspace vents, or stays confined to greenway areas.

Who is most directly affected right now

Today’s warning is tied to specific Congaree River locations that influence parts of Calhoun, Richland, and Lexington counties. If your property or access routes are close to the river corridor—especially near the named forecast points—pay closer attention to river stage updates and any local advisories. The NWS warning text identifies the exact points and counties.

That does not mean every neighborhood in these counties is experiencing flooding. Many areas away from the river remain accessible; exposure varies address by address based on elevation, proximity to tributaries, and local drainage.

Practical steps for homeowners near the river

- If it is safe to do so, note today’s river stage and take time-stamped photos of your yard, driveway, and any waterlines. This creates a baseline if conditions change. - Walk the outside of your home when water recedes to check for soft ground near foundations, shifted outbuildings, or debris around HVAC pads. Avoid walking on saturated banks. - Keep vehicles and stored items above known high-water spots. If you’ve marked past waterlines on a shed or fence, compare them to current forecasts. - Save receipts and photos if you do any immediate stabilization work (like moving belongings, placing barriers, or pumping out a low area). Documentation can matter later.

For local documentation guidance and contacts, Richland County’s floodplain program outlines how property owners should document damage and whom to reach for questions. Review the county’s flooding page.

Insurance and documentation — what to know

- Homeowners insurance typically covers sudden wind-related damage but generally does not cover flood (rising water) unless you carry a separate flood policy. Coverage varies by policy; review yours or speak with a licensed professional. - Photograph first, then clean. Take wide shots and close-ups of any damage or waterlines before moving items. - Keep a simple log: date, river stage (and source), what you observed, and any actions taken. Pair photos with locations on your lot.

Frequently asked questions

### Which specific areas are under the Flood Warning today? The active warning names two Congaree River points: at Congaree National Park near Gadsden (affecting Calhoun and Richland) and at Carolina Eastman (affecting Calhoun, Richland, and Lexington). Check the NWS text for the exact points and the latest status. See the NWS Columbia summary.

What do “minor,” “moderate,” and “major” flood stages mean for property?

They are official categories tied to specific river heights. At the Congaree River at Columbia, minor flooding begins at 19 ft, moderate at 24 ft, and major at 30 ft—useful markers for when low-lying areas near the river may be affected. View the Congaree gauge categories.

Can my home be affected even if it didn’t flood during the last storm?

Yes. River flooding depends on more than rainfall at your address. Upstream inflows, backwater effects on creeks, and small elevation differences can change outcomes between nearby properties.

What should I document if water reaches my lot or crawlspace area?

Take time-stamped photos or video of waterlines, affected rooms or yard areas, and any damaged materials. Keep a simple notes log and save receipts for stabilization work. Richland County’s floodplain page includes local contacts and guidance that can help you organize this information. Review the county guidance.

Does homeowners insurance cover river flooding?

Generally, rising water (flood) is covered by a separate flood policy, not a standard homeowners policy. Coverage varies by policy and carrier; review your declarations page or speak with a licensed agent to understand your situation.

See what this means for your property

Enter your address into Hazard Clarity to explore nearby river corridors, local elevation context, and other hazards that shape your home’s exposure.

— The Hazard Clarity Team

We’re continuing to watch river levels across the Columbia area and will update this page if conditions materially change.