Charleston, October 10, 2025
News Summary
Charleston faces a coastal flood warning from the National Weather Service as king tides impact the city, causing road closures and significant traffic disruptions. Key streets like South Market, Hagood Avenue, and Lockwood Drive are temporarily closed. The city has implemented flood mitigation measures, including free parking accessibility and deployed pumps. While some businesses report increased activity, officials advise residents to avoid flooded areas as the next high tide approaches. The warning remains in effect until Friday afternoon.
Charleston Under Coastal Flood Warning as King Tides Impact the Area
The City of Charleston is currently under a coastal flood warning issued by the National Weather Service. King tides are anticipated to impact certain areas on Friday morning, causing disruptions and temporary closures throughout the city.
Several key areas have been closed temporarily due to flooding, including South Market Street, Hagood Avenue, and Lockwood Drive. The peak high tide occurred at 10:06 a.m., reaching nearly eight feet before receding around 10:30 a.m. This flooding has significantly delayed commutes, affecting major highways like I-26 and Dorchester, leading to reports of substantial traffic issues.
A local jewelry salesperson noted that her commute took an hour instead of the usual 30 minutes due to highway flooding. Local business owners in the outdoor Charleston City Market are monitoring weather conditions closely to prepare for tidal flooding. The Charleston Police routinely barricade South Market Street from State Street to Church Street to protect businesses from flooding.
In response to the coastal flood warning, the city has activated its flood mitigation plan. This plan includes measures such as:
- Opening free parking garages at Charleston Tech Center and 99 WestEdge.
- Deploying pumps in low-lying areas.
- Setting up barricades on frequently flooded roads.
Despite the flooding, some local businesses reported increased activity, with hopes for a minimal impact from future king tides. One business owner observed more foot traffic once the water began to recede, suggesting resilience among local shoppers and tourists. However, officials urged residents to avoid driving through flooded roadways and warned of expected delays over the next 24 hours during high tides.
The next high tide is scheduled for 11:02 a.m. on October 10, expected to reach 8.5 feet. The coastal flood warning remains in effect until 3 p.m. on Friday due to elevated tide levels anticipated to flood low-lying areas throughout the city.
The Live 5 Weather team has declared First Alert Weather Days for Thursday and Friday due to flooding risks during high tides on both mornings. Additionally, winds gusting up to 30 to 35 mph are expected from Thursday night into Saturday, along with a small craft advisory for Charleston Harbor. Residents are advised to stay informed via the National Weather Service for updates on tidal flooding risks.
Key Features of the Coastal Flood Warning
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coastal Flood Warning Duration | In effect until 3 p.m. on Friday |
| Next High Tide | Scheduled for 11:02 a.m. on October 10, expected to reach 8.5 feet |
| Road Closures | South Market Street, Hagood Avenue, Lockwood Drive |
| Flood Mitigation Measures | Free parking, deployed pumps, road barricades |
| Weather Alerts | First Alert Weather Days declared for October 5 and 6 |
| Wind Conditions | Gusts expected up to 30-35 mph from Thursday night into Saturday |
FAQ
What is the current weather alert in Charleston?
The City of Charleston is currently under a coastal flood warning issued by the National Weather Service.
What areas in Charleston are temporarily closed due to flooding?
Areas closed temporarily due to flooding include South Market Street, Hagood Avenue, and Lockwood Drive.
When did the peak high tide occur?
The peak high tide occurred at 10:06 a.m., reaching nearly eight feet before receding around 10:30 a.m.
What are the city’s flood mitigation efforts?
The city has activated its flood mitigation plan, which includes opening free parking garages at Charleston Tech Center and 99 WestEdge, deploying pumps in low-lying areas, and setting up barricades on frequently flooded roads.
What causes commuting disruptions in Charleston?
The flooding delayed commutes, with some reports of highways like I-26 and Dorchester being affected.
When is the next high tide expected?
The next high tide is scheduled at 11:02 a.m. on October 10, expected to reach 8.5 feet.
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4: Charleston Braces for Major Flooding
- Live 5 News: Charleston Leaders Warn of Tidal Flooding Threat
- Count on 2: Tidal Flooding Impacts Downtown Charleston
- Post and Courier: Flood Warning for Coastal Areas
- Greenville Online: King Tide Coastal Flood Advisory
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Google Search: Charleston flooding
- Google Scholar: Coastal flooding Charleston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- Google News: Charleston floods
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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