City of Charleston Advises Residents of Major Tidal Flooding Thursday and Friday

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The City of Charleston is advising residents to prepare for tidal flooding beginning Thursday morning as an offshore storm system combines with seasonal high tides.

Little to no rain is forecast, but elevated tides will cause flooding across low-lying areas. The worst flooding is expected Thursday morning and Friday morning, which could impact motorists and enter homes and businesses in vulnerable areas.

Wind gusts of 30 to 35 mph are possible from Thursday night into Saturday, and a Small Craft Advisory is in effect for Charleston Harbor. Boaters are urged to exercise caution and remain alert to changing conditions.

Tide Schedule and Expected Levels

  • Thursday: 10:06 a.m., 8.0 ft; 10:31 p.m., 7.6 ft
  • Friday: 11:02 a.m., 8.5 ft; 11:28 p.m., 7.0 ft
  • Peak roadway impacts are expected in the hours leading up to and after the 10:06 a.m. high tide Thursday and the 11:02 a.m. high tide Friday.

Residents Urged to Plan Ahead

  • Do not drive or walk through flooded streets. Check TideEye for closed roads.
  • Move vehicles from low-lying areas and away from storm drains.
  • Allow extra travel time and consider alternate routes during morning high tides.
  • Check on neighbors who may need assistance.

City Preparations and Operations

  • Storm drains and ditches have been cleared in known problem areas.
  • Barricades have been pre-staged for early street closures.
  • Police and Fire officials will monitor conditions and support public safety operations.
  • Municipal Court at 180 Lockwood Blvd. will be lenient with individuals delayed or unable to appear due to impassable roads.

Note on pumps: Portable pumps are not effective during tidal flooding. When tides are high, water has nowhere to drain until levels recede. Pumps are used primarily during rain events.

Free Parking for Residents

To help protect vehicles from tidal flooding, the city will open select parking garages for free parking beginning Thursday at 7 a.m. through Friday at 4 p.m.

Garages include:

  • Charleston Tech Center Garage, 997 Morrison Drive
  • 99 WestEdge Garage, 99 WestEdge St.

When exiting the garage, press the call button and inform the operator you are using free storm parking. Avoid ground-level parking, as lower levels of some garages may take on water during peak tides.

Trash and Sanitation

Secure trash and recycling bins the night before. Collection schedules remain unchanged at this time. Updates will be announced if conditions require adjustments.

Stay Informed