The flooding along the Edisto River continued over the Veteran's Day holiday affecting residents from Whetstones Crossroads south to Givhans Ferry. Record setting water levels continued through Sunday up to Stokes Bridge / Sidneys Road with residents advising water levels were 1-1/2 feet higher than the recent floods related to Hurricane Debby. Many residents evacuated the area as well as the Bee City Zoo in an effort to protect the animals. Fortunately, water began to back up into the four holes swamp on the Dorchester County side of the river, reducing the water south of Sidney Road. Levels were still above flood stage, but did not reach expected levels in the Givhans Area, which was a blessing. Fire-Rescue, Red Cross and DSS opened a shelter at the Colleton County Recreation Center. No one utilized the facility, so it was closed Tuesday morning. Code Red and Wireless Emergency Alerts were used to notify residents and travelers in the area in an effort to keep them informed of changes and possible damages in the area. Fire-Rescue, Sheriff's Office, DNR and the National Guard continued to use Station # 36 as a forward base of operations to aid the community. Operations at Station # 36 were curtailed Tuesday. The flood waters are continuing south and reaching the Jelicos area (US Hwy 17-A) this week. Jacksonboro is expected to see increased levels later in the week. Fire-Rescue's Emergency Management Division continues to monitor water levels and coordinate efforts with neighboring counties and state officials.
