Columbia, SC (WLTX) — If you think that the Columbia area was thoroughly soaked by rain in the past week, you are correct.
And while the clouds have finally passed, all of that rainwater had to go somewhere.
Park rangers from Congaree National Park released two photographs showing the effect of rising floodwaters from rainfall of the last week. The first photograph shows the wooden walkway through the park partially submerged. The second photograph, shot 24 hours later, shows the floodwater covering the bench seat along the walkway.
As of noon on Friday, Nov. 16, the Congaree River was at 17.5 feet. Flood stage at the Congaree River at the National Park is 15 feet.
The National Weather Service predicts the river to crest at 17.6 feet around Saturday night and return to below flood stage around Wednesday.
According to the website, the following areas of Congaree National Park are not affected by flooding: Visitor Center, Campgrounds, Elevated Boardwalk, Bluff & Longleaf Trails.
Paddling in the park is not recommended at this time and canoe tours scheduled for this weekend have been cancelled.
