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Media Advisory: USGS Crews out Measuring Record Breaking Inland Flooding

October 5, 2015
Heavy rains and hazardous weather conditions are occurring in western South Carolina, with record flooding occurring and more expected over parts of the region over the next several days.

Reporters: Do you want to accompany a USGS crew as they measure flooding associated with the storm? Please contact Brian McCallum or Hannah Hamilton.

Image: USGS Scientist Inspects Streamgage During Flooding Event
USGS scientist Matt Jennings inspects streamgage number  02136361 at Turkey Creek near Maryville, South Carolina, the morning of October 4, 2015. The discharge they measured was 6,000 cfs.These instruments form the backbone of our National Streamgage Network, which in turn feeds valuable information on water level, streamflow and sometimes water quality to various agencies like the National Weather Service or U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.However, sometimes they themselves come under direct threat from the very floodwaters they’re measuring. During storms like these, while we’re out taking measurements by hand, we also make sure to check on our streamgages.Public domain

Heavy rains and hazardous weather conditions are occurring in western South Carolina, with record flooding occurring and more expected over parts of the region over the next several days.

U.S. Geological Survey field crews are in the field measuring record breaking flooding on rivers and streams across South Carolina today through Friday. Preliminary data shows 15 period-of-record measurements have been taken on rivers and streams in South Carolina. Crews will focus on portions of the Congaree, Black, Pee Dee, Savannah and Little Pee Dee rivers. When flooding occurs, USGS crews make numerous streamflow measurements to verify the data USGS provides to federal, state and local agencies, as well as to the public.

Who:USGS field crews



What:Reporters are invited to join USGS field crews taking water level and water quantity measurements to help document flood conditions and improve National Weather Service flood forecasts



When:Monday, October 5, 2015 through Friday, October 9, 2015



Where:Across South Carolina

Access current flood and high flow conditions across the country by visiting the USGS WaterWatch and FloodWatch websites. Receive instant, customized updates about water conditions in your area via text message or email by signing up for USGS WaterAlert.

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