Cayce Residents Begin to Return Home Following Flooding from Tropical Storm Helene
In the charming city of Cayce, South Carolina, residents are slowly making their way back to their homes after a voluntary evacuation was issued due to the aftermath of Tropical Storm Helene. The concerns for safety arose primarily in the Riverland Park neighborhood, which is located right alongside the river.
Safety Concerns Prompt Evacuations
On Sunday, local officials suggested that residents in Riverland Park consider evacuating as a precaution. The neighborhood faced significant risks as rain from the Upstate caused the river to rise dramatically. Reports indicated the river crested at just over 30 feet, officially reaching major flood stages which alarmed many homeowners. Some areas experienced extensive flooding, while those who resided in higher spots were less affected.
Mixed Reactions from Residents
Among the residents, opinions varied widely regarding the need to evacuate. Paul Dooley, a long-time Cayce resident, was initially unconcerned. He decided to stay home after monitoring the river levels himself. “I went down to the riverfront where I normally walk and measured the height around 10 p.m. that night,” he explained. “I thought to myself, it’s not going to come up that high and affect me tonight.”
Dooley kept a close eye on the situation as the night progressed. He observed, “It wasn’t coming close to reaching our house, so I wasn’t worried.” However, he saw other families in his neighborhood taking the evacuation route very seriously. “I witnessed a family being evacuated from their home via boat because of the water conditions.” That sight helped him understand just how serious the flooding was for some members of the community.
Road Damage and Caution Urged
The flooding also had noticeable impacts on the roads leading to Riverland Park. Old State Road, the main route for accessing the neighborhood, underwent significant damage due to fast-moving floodwaters. City officials are advising residents to exercise caution when traveling on this roadway because of the hazards it presents. Dooley remarked on the condition of the road, “It’s not safe to drive like they normally do to the boat landing anymore.”
Recovering from the Flooding
While some families are beginning to return, many of them face the challenging road to recovery. Homeowners in flood-affected areas are aware that it will take time to address the damages and clean up their property. While Dooley and a few others felt confident enough to stay, many residents chose to prioritize safety, understanding that the rising water levels could pose risks they weren’t willing to take.
A Community Response
The situation in Cayce is a reminder of how quickly natural events can affect daily life. Community support and camaraderie are vital during these challenging moments. Residents are encouraged to look out for each other and check on neighbors who might need assistance as the recovery process gets underway.
As residents step back into their homes and assess the situation, there is a sense of resilience and hope among the people of Cayce. The challenges posed by Tropical Storm Helene have brought about conversations on preparedness and safety, creating a more aware community.
In closing, as things begin to settle, it’s clear that while the floodwaters created hurdles, the true spirit of Cayce shines through in the support and connections among its residents. Together, they will navigate the aftermath and rebuild stronger.
