Southport provides update on flash flooding response

SOUTHPORT, NC (WWAY) — Emergency responders in Southport worked through the night after flash flooding left several drivers stranded between late Tuesday night and early Wednesday morning.

According to the City of Southport, emergency crews responded to 18 flooded or impassable roads between approximately 9:30 p.m. and 3:30 a.m. Nine drivers called for help after becoming trapped in high water, leading to four rescues — three conducted by Southport police and fire units within city limits, and one by another unit on Caswell Beach Road.

While no evacuations were necessary, three homes reported minor flooding. Southport Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center on Fodale Avenue also experienced minor interior flooding, but residents remained safe and in place, officials said.

Due to the severity of flooding, the city’s High Water Rescue truck was deployed to transport people safely, as standard police and fire vehicles were unable drive through many of the submerged roads.

A partial Emergency Operations Center was activated at Southport Fire Department Headquarters, where city leaders coordinated the response and assisted crews on the ground. The National Weather Service in Wilmington remained in close contact with the city and issued a Flash Flood Warning that remained in effect until 2 a.m.

“The professionalism and swift coordination between city leadership, public safety crews, and our regional partners helped ensure no lives or property were lost,” said City Manager Noah Saldo. “We thank the residents for their patience and the emergency responders for their tireless service through the night.”

Officials reminded the public never to drive through standing water.