South Carolina ETV (SCETV) will premiere Weathering the Flood: South Carolina 10 Years Later on Oct. 2 at 8 p.m. on ETV. This 30-minute special revisits the historic “thousand-year” flood of October 2015, when relentless rainfall devastated communities across South Carolina. A decade later, the program reflects on the storm’s catastrophic impact, the state’s recovery efforts and the lessons learned.
With rare archival footage and expert insights, the special explores both the hardships endured and the resilience that continues to define the state. SCETV Chief Meteorologist Tim Miller and Senior Meteorologist Megan Borowski explain the unique atmospheric conditions that fueled the storm, including the influence of Hurricane Joaquin, which funneled deep tropical moisture into South Carolina and triggered days of unprecedented rainfall. The team examines the dynamics of atmospheric rivers, the rapid rise of flash floods and the trillions of gallons of water that inundated the state.
The program features powerful first-hand accounts from those who lived through the disaster. A Gills Creek family recalls the terrifying moment floodwaters surrounded their home and how neighbors came to their rescue. Former City of Columbia Mayor Steve Benjamin reflects on the devastation in the capital city and how quick decision-making, military support and community spirit helped stabilize critical infrastructure.
Former Secretary of the South Carolina Department of Transportation Christy Hall shares how the 2015 flood reshaped emergency operations statewide. From unprecedented interstate closures to large-scale detours, Hall explains how the event transformed the Department of Transportation’s approach to preparedness, response and recovery.
Throughout the special, viewers will hear stories of courage, loss and unity. From neighbors carrying elderly residents to safety, to emergency crews building a temporary dam with helicopters and boulders, Weathering the Flood showcases the ways South Carolinians came together during one of the most destructive natural disasters in state history.
In addition to the program, SCETV has relaunched “Voices Collected,” a community storytelling initiative to preserve the voices and memories connected to the thousand-year flood. SCETV invites South Carolinians and others around the country to share reflections and memories online. Submissions— whether audio, video or image— will be curated for use in broadcasts, podcasts, social media and educational materials. To submit your story online, visit the SCETV website.
Companion reporting will also air on This Week in South Carolina and the South Carolina Lede podcast, which will look back at how the thousand-year flood impacted the state and examine where recovery and resilience efforts stand today in the areas most affected.
SCETV’s weather-related reporting and emergency response communications efforts extend across the state. SCETV closely monitors evolving weather conditions, ensuring timely updates during weather events through statewide, multiplatform coverage. Leveraging the South Carolina Emergency Information Network (SCEIN), a partnership with WUFT in Gainesville, FL, SCETV regularly delivers critical updates across its broadcast television and radio networks, on social media and online. Additionally, in collaboration with the South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) and the Governor’s Office, SCETV broadcasts and livestreams statewide press conferences and provides the latest information on state government office closings. For weather updates and preparedness resources, visit SCETV's dedicated weather page at SCETV.org/weather.
To learn more about how to submit a story to the “Voices Collected” initiative or to explore upcoming SCETV programming around the “thousand-year” flood, visit SCETV.org/1000yearflood.
QUOTES
“South Carolina’s ‘thousand-year’ flood was one of the most defining natural disasters in our state’s history. With this special, SCETV is not only revisiting the devastation and recovery but also honoring the resilience and unity that emerged in its wake. Through Weathering the Flood: South Carolina 10 Years Later and initiatives like “Voices Collected,” we remain committed to delivering trusted, impactful and locally relevant content to the people of the Palmetto State.” –SCETV President and CEO Adrienne Fairwell
“The ‘thousand-year’ flood was a defining moment for South Carolina. By combining storytelling, archival reporting and community engagement, this initiative allows us to look back while also learning forward. It’s an opportunity to honor those who lived through it and to help prepare for the challenges ahead.” –SCETV Assistant General Manager/Deputy Director Dr. Stephanie Cook
“The thousand-year flood was a perfect storm of rare atmospheric conditions, with Hurricane Joaquin pulling in massive amounts of moisture that lingered over South Carolina. As devastating as it was, this event provided critical insights into forecasting, preparedness and communication. This special gives us the opportunity to explain the science behind the storm while also honoring the resilience of those who endured it.” –SCETV Chief Meteorologist Tim Miller
FAST FACTS
- SCETV premieres Weathering the Flood: South Carolina 10 Years Later on Oct. 2 at 8 p.m. on ETV.
- The 30-minute special revisits the historic “thousand-year” flood of Oct. 2015, when relentless rainfall devastated communities across South Carolina.
- SCETV’s “Voices Collected” invites the public to visit the SCETV website to submit stories, photos, videos and audio reflecting on the flood, which will be curated for broadcast, podcasts, social media and educational use.
- Companion reporting will air on This Week in South Carolina and the South Carolina Lede podcast.
- Leveraging its partnership with WUFT in Gainesville, FL, SCETV regularly delivers critical weather updates across its broadcast television and radio networks, on social media and on the SCETV website.
About South Carolina ETV and Public Radio
South Carolina ETV and Public Radio (SCETV) is the state's public educational broadcasting network. SCETV amplifies South Carolina voices, provides educational experiences and strengthens communities, while working toward creating a stronger, more connected and informed South Carolina. In addition to airing local programs, such as The Know Show, Making It Grow, and This Week in South Carolina, SCETV also presents multiple programs to regional and national audiences, including Books By The River, After Action, Reconnecting Roots, Reel South, Downing of a Flag and Southern Songwriters with Patrick Davis.
Media Contact
Landon Masters
media@scetv.org
(803) 737-3337
