Charleston, SC, October 12, 2025
News Summary
Charleston, SC is currently dealing with road closures due to tidal flooding impacting downtown areas. The National Weather Service has predicted high water levels and issued a coastal flood warning. Residents are advised to stay informed and use free parking facilities opened by the city. Similar flooding is also occurring in nearby Mount Pleasant with local authorities on alert for potential impacts as high tide approaches.
Charleston Faces Coastal Flooding, Road Closures
Charleston, SC is experiencing road closures due to tidal flooding as of Friday morning. The roads affected are primarily located in downtown Charleston, where local authorities have responded to the inundation caused by high tides.
The National Weather Service has forecasted high tide to occur at approximately 11 a.m. on Friday, accompanied by anticipated saltwater flooding one to two hours before and after this peak time. To manage the situation, a coastal flood warning has been issued, effective from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. on Friday, forecasting potential saltwater inundation.
As part of the city’s response strategy, the Charleston Police Department has identified several downtown roads that are currently closed due to flooding. Residents and visitors can stay updated on real-time road closures through an official link provided by city authorities. In light of the flooding threat, the city has opened two parking garages for free parking until 4 p.m. on Friday. The locations include:
- Charleston Tech Center Garage at 997 Morrison Drive
- 99 WestEdge Garage
In addition to Charleston, nearby Mount Pleasant has also reported road closures, with Long Point Road between Needlerush Parkway and Rice Planters Drive being shut down due to high water levels.
Similar flooding is expected to continue into Saturday, with several downtown roads remaining closed. High tide is anticipated around noon on Saturday, with water levels projected to peak at 8 feet, which is half a foot below the peak observed on Friday. Earlier on Saturday, Charleston Harbor reached a significant flood stage level of 8 feet before 12:30 a.m.
Flooding typically begins at the 7-foot mark, and with a coastal flood warning still in effect for Charleston and coastal Colleton Counties until 3 p.m. on Saturday, residents are urged to stay vigilant and informed. Emergency management officials have highlighted the impact of king tides as a critical factor contributing to coastal flooding.
Business owners and city officials are prepared, with barricades ready and heightened awareness of the flooding risks. The local fire and police departments may also increase staffing levels and prepare high-water vehicles to respond efficiently to incidents. Residents are strongly encouraged to stay informed through the National Weather Service for the latest updates regarding flooding.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the road closures in downtown Charleston?
Some downtown roads in Charleston, SC are closed due to tidal flooding as of Friday morning.
What are the predictions for high tide in Charleston?
The National Weather Service forecasts high tide around 11 a.m. on Friday, with saltwater flooding possible one to two hours before and after.
What measures has the city taken in response to flooding?
The city of Charleston opened two parking garages for free parking until 4 p.m. on Friday amid the flooding threat.
Are there any road closures outside of Charleston?
The police department in Mount Pleasant closed Long Point Road between Needlerush Parkway and Rice Planters Drive due to high water.
What are the high tide forecasts for Saturday?
High tide is expected around noon on Saturday, with water levels projected to peak at 8 feet—half a foot below Friday’s high tide.
Key Features of the Coastal Flooding Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Charleston, SC |
| Current Situation | Road closures due to tidal flooding |
| High Tide Forecast | 11 a.m. on Friday; 8 feet peak on Saturday |
| Coastal Flood Warning | In effect until 3 p.m. on Friday and Saturday |
| Parking Arrangements | Free parking at two garages until 4 p.m. on Friday |
| Emergency Response | Increased staff and readiness for flooding |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Charleston Police Announce Road Closures for Citadel Home Game
Downtown Charleston Faces Severe Coastal Flooding
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Remembering Davis William Reeves
Coastal Flood Warning Issued for Charleston
Charleston Under Coastal Flood Warning as King Tides Hit
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Downtown Streets Close Amid Saturday Tidal Flooding
- Wikipedia: Tidal Flooding
- Count on 2: List of Charleston Roads Closed Due to Tidal Flooding
- Google Search: Charleston Tidal Flooding
- ABC News 4: Charleston Braces for Major Flooding
- Google Scholar: Tidal Flooding Impact
- Count on 2: Tidal Flooding Causes Traffic Delays Across Charleston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tidal Flooding
- Count on 2: Tidal Flooding Impacts Several Areas in Downtown Charleston
- Google News: Charleston Flooding
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
