S.C. Red Cross, state Department of Transportation urge residents to be prepared for storm, never drive on flooded roads

State agencies are urging South Carolina residents to prepare for the effects of possible flooding because of Tropical Storm Debby, which is forecast to become a Category 1 hurricane before it makes landfall on the Florida coast.

A news release from S.C. Department of Transportation on Sunday afternoon reminds the public that now is the time to prepare.

"With large amounts of rainfall possible as early as Monday, rains could cause flash flooding or ponding on roadways. SCDOT urges the public never to drive through standing water," the agency cautioned.

"SCDOT crews have worked throughout the weekend with a focus on coastal areas, clearing storm drains and preparing for anticipated heavy rainfall. Crews are preparing supplies, staging equipment and getting ready to respond as needed."

Travelers can find more information about being prepared and safe during the storm at  South Carolina Emergency Management Division.

The Red Cross also urged residents to prepare for heavy rain possibly lasting through Friday morning and offered tips for being safe during the storm in a news release on Sunday, including:

• Know the difference between a watch and warning. A watch means a hurricane, tropical storm or flooding is possible. A warning means conditions are expected within 36 hours. Take immediate precautions. 
• Stay informed: Tune in to your local radio, NOAA radio or news channels for the latest updates. Obey evacuation orders from local officials. 
• Check your emergency kit and replace any missing items. 
• Prepare to evacuate quickly and know your routes and destinations. Fill your car's gas tank, in case an evacuation notice is issued. Never ride out a severe storm in a mobile home, even if it’s in a non-evacuation zone. 
• Don’t forget your pets. Bring them indoors and maintain direct control of them. Prepare a pet emergency kit with leashes or carriers, food, water, bowls, cat litter and box, and photos of you with your pet in case you are separated. 
• Stay indoors; avoid beaches, riverbanks and floodwaters. Stay alert for extended rainfall and subsequent flooding. Don't walk or swim through floodwaters.
• Remember: Turn around, don’t drown. Never drive through flooded waterways.
• Use flashlights in the dark if the power goes out. Avoid using candles. 

The Red Cross also urged residents to download the free Red Cross Emergency App for weather alerts, information on open shelters and advice on emergency situations.

The app includes an “I’m Safe” feature that helps people check on loved ones. Search “American Red Cross” in app stores, or go to redcross.org/apps. 

Visit redcross.org/flood for more safety tips.  The website includes what you should do to prepare before a flood and how to stay safe after a flood. The City of Sumter also shared a Red Cross flood preparedness checklist on its Facebook page, available here. Sumter Police Department posted a Tropical Storm Debby update from the National Weather Service Columbia Office on its page, which you can view here.

South Carolina's governor declared a state of emergency on Sunday afternoon.

"According to forecasters with the National Hurricane Center, Tropical Storm Debby is anticipated to intensify before making landfall as a hurricane in Florida on Monday. The storm is expected to slow down and begin impacting South Carolina early this week, with heavy rainfall resulting in life-threatening flash, urban, and river flooding. Strong winds and storm surge can also be expected," according to the news release about the executive order from Gov. Henry McMaster.