28 May 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
CITY OF SOUTHPORT
Southport’s response to flash flooding event
Contact: ChyAnn Ketchum, Public Information Officer
C: (910) 267-7300 | O: (910) 457-7927 ext. 1040
Southport, NC – The City of Southport experienced a severe flash flooding event overnight on Tuesday, May 27, 2025.
Between approximately 9:30 p.m. and 3:30 a.m., emergency crews responded to a total of 18 flooded or impassable roads, with nine stranded motorists calling for help in high water. Of those, four rescue operations were conducted – three by Southport Police and Fire units within city limits and one by a unit in the 800 block of Caswell Beach Road.
While no major evacuations were required, three homes reported minor water intrusion. Southport Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center on Fodale Avenue also experienced minor interior flooding, but residents remained safe and on-site.
Due to the extreme conditions, Southport’s High Water Rescue truck was staffed by first responders and deployed to safely transport affected individuals, as police cruisers and fire engines could not pass through several flooded roadways.
A partial Emergency Operations Center (EOC) was activated at the Southport Fire Department Headquarters. City leadership was on-site coordinating the response and assisting crews throughout the night.
The National Weather Service in Wilmington remained in close communication with the city during the event. After initial updates were received, a Flash Flood Warning was issued for the area and remained in effect until 2:00 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.”
The City of Southport would also like to remind everyone that should you encounter standing or floodwater, never attempt to drive through it; remember the saying, “TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN.”
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