SUMMERVILLE, S.C. — A sudden and intense downpour on Friday brought flash flooding to Summerville, turning quiet neighbourhoods into waterlogged disaster zones. Streets became rivers, homes were filled with water, and some families were forced to evacuate with little to no warning.
Flooding Strikes Without Warning
In just a short span of time, heavy rainfall overwhelmed drainage systems and flooded entire areas. Roads were washed out, vehicles were stranded, and many residents were trapped inside their homes, unsure of what to do next.
For many, the damage has been devastating. Local mother Nia shared her heartbreaking experience with reporters from News 4.
“I really didn’t know what to think,” she said. “I definitely didn’t think I was going to be homeless.”
Nia lost nearly everything inside her home—furniture, family keepsakes, and belongings that can never be replaced.
Homes Damaged, Roads Washed Away
Emergency services were stretched thin throughout the day as calls poured in from all over the Summerville area. Floodwaters damaged multiple homes and made several streets impassable. Officials said rescue operations had to be carried out in some areas where water rose too quickly for families to escape on their own.
Families who managed to get out are now facing the harsh reality of picking up the pieces, many with no flood insurance and nowhere to go.
Community Asking for Help
As cleanup begins, many residents are calling for more long-term solutions. They want better stormwater drainage systems and stronger infrastructure to prevent disasters like this from happening again.
Local organisations and churches are stepping up to provide food, temporary shelter, and basic supplies. But the need is great—and growing.
The Emotional Toll
Beyond the physical damage, the emotional toll is heavy. Residents like Nia say they’ve lost not just their homes, but their sense of stability.
“My daughter’s baby pictures, the gifts my mom gave me—gone. All gone in just a few minutes,” she said, holding back tears.
Others echoed her heartbreak, saying the flooding not only ruined their homes, but also left them feeling helpless and forgotten.
What’s Next for Summerville?
Local leaders are assessing the damage and discussing emergency relief options. Cleanup crews will be working through the weekend, but full recovery is expected to take weeks or even months.
Authorities are urging residents to avoid driving on flooded roads and to report any unsafe conditions. They are also advising families to document any damage for insurance or relief claims.
As the waters recede, the community is coming together—but many are still in desperate need of help and support.
