Charleston, SC, August 25, 2025
News Summary
Charleston, SC is experiencing serious flash flooding due to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, prompting urgent warnings from the National Weather Service. Over 40 roads are closed in Downtown Charleston, with advisories for residents in flood-prone areas to move to higher ground. A record rainfall of 2.95 inches was recorded at Charleston International Airport, contributing to significant inundation. Emergency officials urge caution, especially regarding driving through barricades and floodwaters, as conditions pose serious risks.
Charleston, SC is currently facing significant weather-related challenges as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an urgent flash flood warning due to ongoing heavy rainfall and slow-moving thunderstorms. This warning remains in effect until 12:15 a.m. on Sunday, following a night of torrential rain that has caused road closures and safety advisories throughout the area.
The NWS has also issued a coastal flood advisory specifically targeting Coastal Jasper and Beaufort County, effective until 11 p.m. on Saturday. Residents can expect up to half a foot of inundation above ground level along shorelines and tidal waterways, with a forecasted tidal height of 9.8 to 10.0 feet Mean Lower Low Water at Fort Pulaski. High tide, occurring around 9:10 p.m. on Saturday, may result in saltwater inundation impacting roads in the region, particularly 1 to 2 hours after high tide.
Motorists are warned to allow extra time for travel as many roads may be closed. It is critical that drivers do not attempt to drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth, as floodwaters present serious risks. Those living in flood-prone or low-lying areas are strongly advised to move to higher ground.
Emergency management officials have reported that over 40 roads were closed in Downtown Charleston due to flooding during Friday’s rain. Key locations prone to flash flooding include Downtown Charleston, West Ashley, Medical University of South Carolina, The Citadel, Marion Square, and Columbus Street Terminal. Current estimates show that 0.5 to 1 inch of rainfall has occurred from Downtown Charleston to James Island as of Saturday morning, with total accumulation from the storms possibly reaching up to 3 inches, and an additional 1 to 2 inches forecasted.
The situation worsened when a new daily rainfall record was set at Charleston International Airport, recording 2.95 inches on August 22, surpassing the previous record of 1.58 inches set in 2008. Flooding has been reported in nearby areas, including Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, and Sullivans Island, contributing to the urgent safety advisories in effect.
Amid the flooding, Charleston Water Department is advising residents to avoid floodwaters due to high bacteria levels, regardless of wastewater involvement. In response to the severe weather, municipal authorities are providing free storm parking at two garages in Charleston throughout Sunday for affected residents, but vehicles must be removed by 9 a.m. to avoid charges.
Driving through standing water is illegal under City ordinance, with citations likely to be issued by the Charleston Police Department for violations of barricades, as such actions create unsafe conditions for first responders. Additionally, residents are encouraged to take protective actions for flood-prone properties, including disconnecting utilities before evacuations, if time permits.
Recommendations from the NWS also include staying clear of basements or rooms that might flood, and evacuating immediately if sparks or unusual noises are detected from electric appliances. Emergency management authorities caution that just 6 inches of swift water can easily knock a person off their feet, and 12 inches can sweep away most vehicles, emphasizing the critical nature of heeding safety advisories during the ongoing flash flood situation.
FAQ
What areas are under flash flood warnings?
Charleston County is currently under a flash flood warning due to heavy rainfall and slow-moving thunderstorms.
What is the expected rainfall?
Up to three inches of rain has already fallen, and an additional 1 to 2 inches is possible. Areas have already experienced rainfall accumulations of 0.5 to 1 inch.
What safety precautions should residents take?
Residents in flood-prone areas should move to higher ground, avoid driving around barricades, and stay away from floodwaters due to high bacteria levels.
Are there any free parking options for affected residents?
Yes, free storm parking is being offered at two garages in Charleston through Sunday. Vehicles must exit by 9 a.m. to avoid charges.
What should you do if floodwaters come in contact with electrical appliances?
If sparks or unusual noises are detected, it is critical to evacuate immediately.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
High Surf Advisory and Rip Current Risks in Charleston, SC
Flash Flood Warning Issued for Beaufort, SC
Beaufort, SC Faces Flash Flood Warning Following Severe Rainfall
Flash Flood Warning Issued for Beaufort and Jasper Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Beaufort and Colleton Counties
Severe Weather Alert in Charleston SC: Thunderstorms and Flooding
The Impact of the 1940 Hurricane on Beaufort, SC
Flood Advisory Canceled for Beaufort and Jasper Counties
Beaufort County Prepares for Hurricane Helene and Flooding
Severe Thunderstorm and Flash Flood Warnings in Beaufort County
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Charleston Flash Flood Warning
- Wikipedia: Flash Flood
- Live 5 News: Charleston Flash Flood Warning
- Google Search: Charleston flash flood August 2023
- Fox Weather: Flash Flooding Threat in Charleston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- Count On 2: Flash Flood Warning for Charleston Area
- Google News: Charleston Weather Updates
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
