Flooding & Sea Level Rise Strategy

2023 Storymap cover image Opens in new windowThe 2023 Flooding and Sea Level Rise Strategy is now a dynamic online storymap that will be updated regularly rather than a static paper document.  This way, citizens can stay informed on the evolving nature of City projects relating to flooding.

The 2023 update highlights the valuable work that has been completed; the important work that is underway; and the essential work ahead to tackle flooding and sea level rise in Charleston. 

⇨ Track Implementation Progress: View Action Status

⇨ Print Snapshot of 2023 Update: View Quick Reference Guide


Importance

Flooding and sea level rise are challenges the City of Charleston has taken seriously for centuries. However, Charleston is experiencing flooding more frequently than ever.  

Per NOAA tide gauge data, Charleston has experienced 13" of sea level rise in the past 100 years.  

Notably, this rate is non-linear as almost 1/2 the total amount of sea level rise in the last 100 years has been in the last 20 years, (approx. 0.5 FT).  That means the rate of sea level rise is increasing faster now than in the past.


The City of Charleston Flooding and Sea Level Rise Strategy update for 2023 builds upon the 2019 and 2015 Strategies, including important and updated climate data, as well as infrastructure and drainage project and policy updates.  The City’s flooding, drainage, and sea level rise investments are increasing as are its climate adaptation, resilience and sustainability work.

Archive

Resources

A wide range of flooding related resources are linked throughout the 2023 Flooding and Sea Level Rise Strategy storymap.  Which includes a separate storymap about the USACE Perimeter Protection Project.

"By 2050, NOAA and other federal agencies project the Charleston region will experience approximately 14 inches of sea level rise." 

-Dale Morris, Chief Resilience Officer

Global and Regional Sea Level Rise Scenarios for the United States. March, 2022