Bamberg, South Carolina  –   Bamberg County officials remind citizens that because of record rainfalls county roads must dry out before repairs can begin. As of late February, Denmark had nine inches of rain and Ehrhardt received eight inches. The average rainfall in Bamberg County for the month of February is three and a half inches.

The high amount of rain combined with already wet ground creates deep and long-lasting puddles on many dirt roads. “We have barricaded the worst roads,” stated Bill Johnson, Bamberg County Director of Operations. “If possible, we urge drivers to avoid driving down dirt roads and to turn around if there is standing water. Please allow the county public works employees time to repair roads, we are aware of the problems but we need several days of warm, dry weather to address the issues.”

Some dirt roads may pose issues for the US Postal Service and school buses. “If the road is unpassable for postal service drivers, residents will need to pick up their mail at their Post Office. Some students may need to meet the school bus at the end of their roads,” said Brittany Barnwell, Bamberg County Emergency Services Director. “We ask for citizen’s patience and for them to use their best judgement when driving county dirt roads. As soon as the weather allows, the roads will be worked on, but until then, please use caution and alternate routes when possible.”