With the potential for heavy rain continuing into the evening, and in order to keep as much traffic off the roads during rush hour as possible, city of Charleston offices, including the municipal court, will close at 3:30 p.m. today. The early release does not apply to public safety employees or other personnel needed to provide essential City services.
City of Charleston Recreation summer camps will remain open and staffed, as regularly scheduled.
As of this afternoon, unofficial gauges on the Charleston peninsula were measuring more than three inches of rain, and another band of heavy rain is forecast to be on the way.
Currently, throughout the peninsula there are 16 roads closed due to flooding, including portions of major arteries such as Ashley Avenue, Calhoun Street, East Bay Street, and Rutledge Avenue.
The Charleston Police Department is encouraging motorists to avoid downtown Charleston at this time due to flooding related road closures.
Stormwater crews are deploying temporary pumps throughout the city in anticipation of the afternoon commute, which will coincide with high tide, and possibly more rain.
City Stormwater crews have deployed three Vactor trucks to assist with drainage. Streets and Sidewalks crews have been assisting additional Stormwater crews throughout the day to monitor and clear storm drains of debris, as needed.
Horses were pulled off the streets at approximately 11:45 a.m. due to flooding related road closures, and Livability and Tourism director Dan Riccio is monitoring conditions.
Citizens are encouraged to check local media for the latest weather reports and to use caution when on the roads.
For an up to date list of street closures throughout the city please visit http://gis.charleston-sc.gov/road-closures.