Flooding in Ocean Ridge

posted 9/7/23 – MPOA UPDATE ON THE WATER SITUATION IN OCEAN RIDGE – SEPTEMBER 2023

In September 2022, when we had a rain event that dumped eleven inches of rain on Edisto in a very short period of time, we were made aware of the drainage issue at the outfall at the Yacht Club area. During that event we pumped water to lower the water level so that companies could come in and assess the situation. Over the next several months, we had two attempts by two different companies to blow the pipeline out under the road at the Yacht Club. This was done after cameras were used to observe pipe on both ends. These attempts were not successful. The riser is full of rip rock that was thrown in the riser over a period of time. The pipe under the road is crushed next to the riser connection and has been very difficult to find anyone willing to do the work necessary to fix the pipe and install a new riser.

We were able to clean the pipeline under the main entrance to Ocean Ridge which connects to two large lagoons along Docksite Road. In late July, we were able to get a company to come and clean out almost all the drain lines inside Ocean Ridge. Since that event occurred, we have been in discussions with the DOT and several contractors that have been contacted to help solve the problem. After many “I am coming.” and “No Shows” we were again faced with a great deal of water with Hurricane Idalia, a Blue Moon, and a King Tide this past week. Before the storm arrived, the lagoon levels were all lowered. We immediately rented two pumps to begin the process of getting rid of the excessive amount of water in Ocean Ridge. The pumps ran sixteen hours a day for four and one-half days. The water level has significantly decreased. We met with the Mayor of Edisto Beach, the Town Administrator, and the DOT to come up with a solution to help Ocean Ridge. Three different contractors have been contacted about helping to ease this water problem. Two of these contractors are submitting bids to fix the clogged drain under the main road. We are waiting to hear from the third contractor and also waiting for the bids from the other two.

We realize there is a problem and are fervently trying to get a solution. We have all been affected by the large amount of water. When you live at sea level and get the amount of rain and tides that we experienced last week, the flood waters do not go away quickly. Please know that the MPOA board is working diligently to get someone to actually come and do the work needed to help with this situation. The completion of this project will depend on the contractors getting the bids to us and getting the work done. We will keep you informed about the progress. We apologize for not keeping you abreast of each situation.

Ocean Ridge MPOA Board

Flooding within Ocean Ridge

posted 8/31/23 From the Town of Edisto Beach:

Please note high water is on Rice Lane, Gun Bluff, and Battery Park within Ocean Ridge. As we wait for these waters to be pumped out, please avoid driving through these areas and avoid walking in standing water as contamination may be present.

Thank you.

 

Wednesday morning update, Hurricane Idalia

posted 8/30/2023 From the Town of Edisto Beach – Hurricane Idalia has made landfall in Florida as a Category 3. Please be aware Edisto Beach is under a Hurricane Warning and a Storm Surge Warning. The models indicate Idalia will pass over our area, with the storm’s intensity expected between Wednesday at 6 p.m. to Thursday at 3 a.m. Anticipate high winds, flooding, storm surge, downed trees, power outages and downed power lines, and road closures. The Governor has issued a State of Emergency for our state; and Mayor Crawford Moore has issued a State of Emergency for Edisto Beach.
The latest forecast predicts 50-65 mph sustained winds with gusts to 80 mph.
The storm surge inundation possibility is 2-4 feet above ground, with the window of concern occurring through Thursday morning. Flooding is expected. Areas of inundation include saltwater along immediate shorelines and in low-lying spots farther inland near rivers and creeks, with storm surge flooding accentuated by waves.
Also, please move vehicles which may be parked along Palmetto Boulevard from the 100-600 block in the event of any potential of water and sand impacts and removal.
Please unplug all golf carts and other electrical vehicles and move them to higher ground, if possible.
Do not traverse flooded roadways. Historically, flooding occurs on Palmetto Boulevard, Yacht Club Road, Arc/Billow Streets, Jungles Shores Drive, portions of Myrtle Street, and Docksite Road.
Emergency services may be suspended if necessary and until safe.
Please keep abreast of news alerts and notifications regarding Hurricane Idalia.
We will continue to send information regarding Idalia as we are updated.

Message from Mayor Moore Concerning Hurricane Idalia

posted 8/29/23  From the mayor of Edisto Beach:  Here we go again! Even though many of us have dealt with these storms in the past, it is always a good idea to revisit our personal preparation. There are many new owners who have not been through this, so just a few quick reminders.
The briefing held this morning noted sustained winds of 45 mph gusting up to 60 mph, heavy rainfall of 4 to 6 inches with flash flooding, and a storm surge of 2 to 4 feet. The largest impact will begin Wednesday afternoon and go through the night into Thursday morning. We are looking at a king tide in the middle of this tropical storm passage Wednesday evening of 7.5 feet. Add the projected storm surge to this, and we can plan on saltwater inundation all around the beach, so be prepared.
During the evening Wednesday, please shelter in place and do not go out sightseeing. We don’t want to put our first responders unnecessarily at risk. To be prepared, secure your garbage cans, outdoor deck and porch furniture, elevate items that can be at risk of flood damage from the saltwater surge. Also, prepare for power outages.
The plan here is to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. Edisto Beach Police and Fire Departments are prepared, as well as the Colleton County Sheriff’s Office and Colleton County Fire and Rescue, so take some time today to prepare your property. During your preparation be reminded that sandbags are available at the Fire Department.
So please spend some time today to get ready in order to be prepared for any possible impacts.
Thank you and stay safe,
Crawford

Tuesday morning update, Hurricane Idalia

posted 8/29/23  From the Town of Edisto Beach, August 29, 2023:  As of earlier this morning, Hurricane Idalia is approximately 685 miles southwest of Beaufort, SC. A Tropical Storm Watch has been issued for Edisto Beach, as well as a Storm Surge Watch.
The latest forecast predicts 45 mph sustained winds with gusts to 60 mph. The window for the winds is Wednesday afternoon until Thursday morning.
The storm surge inundation possibility is 2-4 feet above ground, with the window of concern occurring Wednesday afternoon until early Thursday morning.
The rainfall possibility is 4-8 inches. Flooding is expected.
Please prepare your homes for these possible impacts. The time to prepare is NOW.
We will continue to send information regarding Idalia as we are updated.