City of Sumter Closing all Parks until Hazardous Conditions have Passed

All parks in the City of Sumter are officially closed and will remain closed until the Flash Flood Watch and hazardous weather outlook for the area has passed.

According to the National Weather Service forecast, rainfall is expected to increase during the weekend as tropical moisture from hurricane Joaquin merges with a low pressure system. Rainfall could reach six to 12 inches.

Residents living in lowlands and near streams and rivers should keep an eye on their surroundings and be prepared to take action if flooding occurs. As always, if residents have an emergency, they should call 911.

Should flooding occur, do not try to walk through flood waters. It only takes six inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 for help. Also, do not drive into flooded roadways or around a barricade; Turn Around, Don't Drown!
Flood water may be deeper than it appears and can hide many hazards such as sharp objects, washed out road surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals, and more. A vehicle caught in swiftly moving water can be swept away in a matter of seconds. Twelve inches of water can float a car or small SUV and 18 inches of water can carry away large vehicles.

In addition to rising waters, residents should be prepared for possible power outages. More than a week of rainfall has soaked the ground and high winds and gusts could topple trees and limbs.
 

Click here to view our utilities page to report power outages.

The City of Sumter is constantly monitoring the situation this weekend and are prepared to respond as needed. 

If you encounter road blockages or high water on the roads, please call 803-436-2558. In case of an emergency, call 911.