The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for the Columbia area, including West Columbia and Dentsville, until 5:30 p.m. as heavy rain and thunder rolls through the area.
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Residents may have received an emergency alert around 2:50 p.m., advising the public not to travel unless fleeing a flooding area. The emergency alert described the flooding risk as “a dangerous and life-threatening situation.”
A flash flood warning has also been issued for the Lexington area, including Irmo and Red Bank, until 6:15 p.m.
The National Weather Service has advised that flash flooding is expected in areas that typically flood during heavy rain. Five Points and the intersection of Whaley and Assembly streets tend to be among the first areas that flood in downtown Columbia during heavy storms.
The city of Columbia Thursday afternoon also issued a warning to motorists to avoid flood-prone areas of the city.
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By Thursday afternoon, Five Points had flooded, according to community reports. One resident shared photos on Facebook showing a large amount of water covering Five Points streets.
Last weekend, storms brought down a 125-year-old Oak tree in downtown Columbia and flooded several areas.
Flash Flood Warning continues for Columbia SC, West Columbia SC and Dentsville SC until 5:30 PM EDT pic.twitter.com/c0R0bUsFBn
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— NWS Columbia (@NWSColumbia) August 6, 2026