03/October/2015 – Hurricane Joaquin, Rains & Flooding

Hurricane Joaquin brought heavy rains to the Lowcountry beginning Saturday which caused local flooding and multiple MVCs, especially on Interstate 95. Two additional crews were called in to staff one Engine and an additional ambulance to assist with the increased call volume. Accidents were so numerous that crews began tying yellow fire line tape to the cars to identify which accidents had already been checked. Visibility on the roadways was very limited. The Sheriff’s Office deployed additional Deputies as well and assisted the Highway Patrol in an attempt to clear accidents. Fire-Rescue staffed the EOC at headquarters and began sending crews to evaluate low lying areas to determine the passability of roadways. Those staffing the EOC began to compile lists of residents who were potentially in harm’s way. Law Enforcement and SCDOT crews blocked off flooded roads and established detours. Power outages were common most of Saturday night. Coastal Electric and SCE&G crews worked through the night to restore power to thousands of customers.