CHARLESTON, S.C. — Heavy rain and a nearly 7.7-foot high tide flooded streets across Charleston on Saturday morning, forcing 21 road closures by 11 a.m. as crews and first responders worked downtown and nearby neighborhoods.
The National Weather Service in Charleston issued an updated flash flood warning at 7:23 a.m. that remained in effect until 9:30 a.m. for Charleston County. City emergency managers reported heavy rain downtown with flash flooding already under way and several roads closed.
An intense band of rain moved through Folly Beach, James Island, Johns Island, West Ashley and downtown Charleston, producing 1 to 2 inches of rain. An inundation sensor on Ogier Street near Calhoun Street reported water more than half a foot deep.
Mayor William Cogswell thanked residents who stayed home and urged the same caution for the evening high tide near 8 p.m., warning drivers not to push wakes into neighboring homes and businesses. Charleston police said they will ticket drivers who go around barricades or drive through floodwaters.
Charleston County Emergency Management Director Justin Pierce said familiar trouble spots on the peninsula were expected to flood and asked motorists to stay off the roads unless travel was necessary. The city also responded to one sinking-vehicle call with no rescue needed, two downed-tree calls and one downed power line.
Locations under the warning included North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, James Island, Johns Island, West Ashley, downtown Charleston, Daniel Island, Folly Beach and Kiawah Island. Officials said lingering river and creek rises from inland rains could extend flooding impacts into Sunday.
