In consultation with the National Weather Service (NWS) Charleston, the city of Charleston is preparing for a coastal storm expected to bring 2 to 3 inches of rainfall through Sunday, as well as gusty winds. The predicted rainfall combined with an already projected elevated tide is expected to result in significant flooding throughout Charleston.
City stormwater crews have begun to prepare for potential flooding, with crews and Jet Vactor trucks actively clearing storm drains throughout the city. Temporary pumps have been secured and will be on standby throughout the weekend, as will additional crews to monitor the situation and respond as needed.
The Public Safety Operations Center is scheduled to open early Sunday morning to monitor conditions and coordinate response, if necessary.
According to the current National Weather Service Charleston forecast, rainfall is expected to peak Sunday morning, with a 9 a.m. high tide predicted to be 8.1 feet, which alone is considered major flood stage. The tide is predicted to remain within flood stage, above approximately 7.0 feet, from 7 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sunday, with continued high concentration rainfall. Additionally, Sunday evening’s high tide could reach minor flooding levels.
City of Charleston Emergency Management Director Shannon Scaff said, “Flooding on Sunday morning will likely make travel in and around Charleston hazardous. We encourage citizens to pay attention to National Weather Service and local media forecasts, as conditions may change, in order to determine whether travel is prudent. Motorists should be aware of alternate routes and refrain from entering flooded or barricaded areas.”