Flash Flood in Greenville County, South Carolina

A thunderstorm developed over the headwaters of the Reedy River during the morning, then remained nearly stationary for several hours, producing rainfall of 4 to 9 inches in approximately 4 hours. This resulted in major flooding in areas from Berea to downtown Greenville. The Reedy River reached 19.2 feet in downtown Greenville, the second highest level on record. Several businesses along the river in downtown incurred major damage, as did numerous homes in the Berea and Sans Souci areas. At least 30 homes were condemned. Numerous roads and bridges were damaged or washed out. Hundreds of vehicles were damaged or destroyed. Flooding was much less severe on the east side of the metro area, although the Enoree River and several of its tributaries, including Brushy Creek, did overflow their banks.

Flash flooding became more concentrated in the Greenville metro area and vicinity during the late afternoon and evening while also worsening in magnitude. This included both the Reedy River, where moderate flooding developed, as well as main stem river flash flooding along the Saluda River in the west Greenville area. Flash flooding also peaked along the Enoree River and its major tributaries during this time, including Brushy Creek and Gilder Creek. Numerous roads and some structures were inundated.

Guilder Creek flooded East Butler Road to a depth of about 3 feet. One car was caught in the flooding and the occupant had to be rescued. A mobile home park on Old Mill Road was flooded and the residents evacuated. Corn Road next to Mauldin High was flooded at the bridge. The bridge was damaged, closing the road for several weeks. At least 8 homes suffered significant flood damage in Mauldin. Ashemore Bridge Road was flooded and impassable about a mile southwest of Mauldin.