News Summary

The National Weather Service has issued a coastal flood advisory for Charleston and nearby areas due to rising tides and potential saltwater inundation. The advisory warns residents of possible flooding between 6 p.m. and 11 p.m. and advises taking precautions. High tides could lead to up to half a foot of inundation, particularly affecting low-lying areas. Residents are urged to stay informed, prepare their properties, and avoid driving through flooded roads to ensure safety.

Charleston Issues Coastal Flood Advisory as Tides Rise

Charleston, SC – The National Weather Service (NWS) in Charleston has issued a coastal flood advisory for Charleston and the surrounding areas, valid from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Wednesday. With predictions indicating high tides and potential saltwater inundation, residents are urged to take precautions to ensure their safety and protect their property.

Specifically, the advisory applies to Coastal Jasper and Beaufort County, where up to half a foot of inundation is anticipated above ground level. This surge is expected along shorelines and tidal waterways, with the tide at Fort Pulaski projected to reach around 9.4 to 9.6 feet Mean Lower Low Water. High tide is slated for approximately 7:55 p.m., and saltwater inundation may occur 1 to 2 hours before and after this peak time.

Residents and travelers should be aware that some roads may be impacted by the flooding, which could lead to traffic disruptions. It is essential for individuals to allow for extra travel time, as roads may become impassable. Those encountering barricades or flooded areas are advised not to attempt to drive through them, as the depth of the water may be unknown and can pose significant risk.

Precautionary Measures and Evacuations

Authorities recommend that residents in flood-prone areas take necessary actions to safeguard their property. Those camping or living in low-lying zones should seek higher ground without delay. In the event that evacuation orders are issued, residents are expected to comply immediately to ensure their safety. It is also advised to secure homes by locking windows and doors before leaving, and if time permits, disconnecting utilities and appliances may help prevent further damage.

Additional safety measures include avoiding entry into basements or rooms where electrical outlets may be submerged. If individuals notice electrical sparks or hear buzzing sounds, they should evacuate the premises promptly. It is also crucial to refrain from entering water that may carry an electric current and to avoid walking through floodwaters, as just six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet.

Risks Associated with Flooding

In the unfortunate event of being trapped in moving water, residents are advised to seek the highest possible ground and call emergency services by dialing 911. Officials stress that driving through any amount of water on roadways can be dangerous; even seemingly harmless water can sweep a vehicle away. According to data, just 12 inches of rushing water can carry away most cars, while hydroplaning occurs when vehicles slide uncontrollably on wet surfaces due to water buildup in front of tires.

Updated Coastal Flood Statement and Public Awareness

The NWS updated their coastal flood statement at 6:04 p.m. on Thursday, extending the advisory until 9 p.m. for Charleston County. Tide levels in Charleston Harbor are expected to peak at around 7.0 feet MLLW, with high tide occurring at approximately 8:43 p.m. Residents are particularly cautioned about potential saltwater flooding across Fishburne Street and Hagood Avenue.

As part of ongoing efforts to enhance public awareness, flooding warnings and advisories will be updated to provide a clearer understanding of events without inflating actual flood risk. Over the past year, the Charleston district has issued about 95 Flood Advisories and 19 Flash Flood Warnings, but this number may adjust with the new policies being implemented. Officials indicate that these updated guidelines will likely lead to more Flash Flood Warnings and fewer Flood Advisories in urban areas that have vulnerable drainage systems.

Background and Future Measures

These adjustments aim to improve communication with the public regarding flooding risks, though they are not indicative of an increased risk. Tidal flooding will still be communicated through established channels such as Coastal Flood Warnings and Storm Surge Warnings. The NWS plans to roll out these updates in August to align with national standards without immediate changes at nearby offices. Importantly, these updates were in development prior to the recent severe flooding in Texas and are not a direct response to these events.

Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant as the coastal flood advisory remains in effect. Community safety depends not only on individual preparedness but also on collective awareness of the risks associated with rising tides and potential flooding.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Charleston Area
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Charleston Area
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Hilton Head Island
Beaufort County Under Flood Advisory Due to Heavy Rain
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Beaufort County
Severe Flooding in Beaufort County Due to Tropical Storm Debby

Additional Resources

• Herald Online: Charleston Issues Coastal Flood Advisory
• Wikipedia: Flood
• Fox Weather: Charleston Flood Alerts
• Google Search: Charleston Flood Advisory
• The State: Charleston Flooding Information
• Google Scholar: Flooding in Charleston
• Herald Online: Updated Flood Warnings
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Flooding
• Travel and Tour World: Charleston Travel Alert
• Google News: Charleston Flooding

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

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