The City of Charleston has issued a warning to residents about major tidal flooding expected on Thursday and Friday due to an offshore storm system combined with seasonal high tides. Although little to no rain is forecast, the city expects elevated tides to cause flooding in low-lying areas. The most severe flooding is anticipated on Thursday morning and Friday morning, which could affect motorists and potentially enter homes and businesses located in vulnerable zones.
Wind gusts between 30 and 35 mph are possible from Thursday night through Saturday. A Small Craft Advisory has been issued for Charleston Harbor, with officials urging boaters to exercise caution and stay alert to changing conditions.
According to the city, high tides are expected at the following times: Thursday at 10:06 a.m. (8.0 feet) and 10:31 p.m. (7.6 feet), and Friday at 11:02 a.m. (8.5 feet) and 11:28 p.m. (7.0 feet). Roadway impacts are likely in the hours before and after the peak tides on both days.
The city advises residents not to drive or walk through flooded streets, to check TideEye for road closures, move vehicles from low-lying areas, allow extra travel time during morning peaks, consider alternate routes, and check on neighbors who may need help.
City crews have cleared storm drains and ditches in known problem areas, pre-staged barricades for early street closures, and police and fire departments will monitor conditions to support public safety. The Municipal Court at 180 Lockwood Blvd. will be flexible with individuals delayed or unable to appear due to impassable roads.
The city notes that portable pumps are not effective during tidal flooding because water cannot drain until tide levels recede; pumps are reserved for rain events.
To help protect vehicles from flooding, select parking garages—including Charleston Tech Center Garage (997 Morrison Drive) and 99 WestEdge Garage (99 WestEdge Street)—will offer free parking from Thursday at 7 a.m. through Friday at 4 p.m. Residents should avoid ground-level parking as lower levels may flood during peak tides.
Residents are also asked to secure trash and recycling bins the night before; collection schedules remain unchanged unless further updates are announced.
For more information, residents can visit the city’s website at charleston-sc.gov or contact the Citizens Services Desk by phone at 843-724-7311 or email at citizenservices@charleston-sc.gov. Updates will also be provided via social media channels including Instagram, Facebook, X, and through the city’s newsletter.
