The City of Charleston on Saturday said it is "urgently" preparing for severe weather conditions as a powerful tropical storm approaches the region. Officials are warning residents of imminent, life-threatening floodwaters and unpredictable flash flooding, with forecasts predicting up to 18 inches of rain, according to the National Weather Service.
Rainfall is expected to begin Sunday and last potentially through Friday. This storm is expected to produce very significant and rare flooding impacts across the city. Additionally, the storm is forecasted to produce tropical storm force winds.
Key Points
- Potential for Life-Threatening Flooding: The anticipated rainfall is expected to inundate roads across the city, damage vehicles, and enter some structures. Motorists who drive into floodwaters may lose their vehicles. Residents are urgently advised to move their vehicles to higher ground before Monday.
- Critical Period of Concern: The National Weather Service (NWS) Charleston forecasts that rainfall and gusty winds will begin as early as Sunday and may continue through late week. Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday are days of particular concern. Rain will persist through Friday.
- Anticipate Road Closures: Officials warn that extreme flooding is expected to cause widespread road closures throughout the city. Roads that are not typically affected by flooding are likely to experience significant disruptions.
Sandbag Distribution
Sandbag distribution will commence at 7:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 4, and will continue until 6:00 p.m. or until supplies run out. Residents should bring their own shovels, and a limit of 10 bags per residence will be enforced. Distribution locations are as follows:
- 1580 Ashley Gardens Blvd – Bee’s Landing Recreation Center (West Ashley)
- Hampton Park, Mary Murray Dr. at Ashley Ave. – Parking Lot by Ball Fields (Peninsula)
- Sevens Farms Drive – Governor’s Park Parking Lot near the Dog Park (Daniel Island)
- 1051 Fort Johnson Rd, Bayview Soccer Complex – Circular Drive Adjacent to Bathrooms and Concession Stand (James Island)
Preventative Measures and Preparedness
In light of these forecasts, the City of Charleston has implemented a series of urgent preventative measures and preparedness protocols under Mayor Cogswell’s Active Flood Mitigation Plan. Additional measures will be announced following further assessment:
- The Charleston Police and Fire Departments will deploy all available staff starting Monday to enhance response efforts.
- Barricades will be placed on streets several hours before heavy rain and high tide begin on Monday.
- High-water vehicles and crews equipped with essential resources will be mobilized.
- Water levels at Colonial Lake and Lake Dotterer have been lowered.
- Storm drains on flood-prone streets will be cleared starting today.
- Temporary pumps will be installed in vulnerable areas in advance of the rain.
- Parking Garages will be opened for free to residents to move vehicles to higher ground. Announcement on timing is forthcoming.
Residents are urged to stay informed through local media for forecast updates. City officials will maintain close communication with Charleston County and other local agencies throughout the weekend and will continue to provide regular updates from the National Weather Service regarding the storm's progression and local impacts.
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