Charleston, September 20, 2025
News Summary
Charleston will host a meeting on flood mitigation initiatives, groundwater monitoring, and related topics on September 18, streamed live on YouTube. Updates will be provided by the Basin Flood Action Committee, highlighting improvements in flood insurance discounts following a new FEMA rating for North Charleston. Residents will also receive essential safety information regarding current flooding conditions.
Charleston is set to hold a meeting on Thursday, September 18, at 4 p.m. to discuss several initiatives concerning flood mitigation, groundwater monitoring, and related projects. The meeting will be streamed live on YouTube, allowing residents to stay informed about significant developments in the city’s flood management efforts.
Representatives from Charleston’s Basin Flood Action Committee will provide updates and present data related to flood-related projects across the city. Topics of discussion will include the city’s flood plan as well as ongoing groundwater monitoring efforts aimed at ensuring safety and reducing risks associated with flooding.
In a notable achievement, North Charleston has improved its standing with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) by advancing to a Class 5 rating under the National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System. This enhanced rating results from a rigorous five-year verification process, and it will have financial implications for local property owners. Notably, as of October 1, residents in North Charleston will receive a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums, up from the previous 15% discount.
FEMA ratings vary within Charleston County, where the city of Charleston holds a Class 2 rating, offering a 40% discount on flood insurance, and Folly Beach has achieved a Class 3 rating with a 35% discount. North Charleston now joins a select group of areas with a Class 5 rating, which includes locations such as Sullivan’s Island, Isle of Palms, Myrtle Beach, and Greenville.
The improvement in flood mitigation ratings has been driven by several factors, including new construction requirements that mandate elevating buildings in flood-prone areas to be at least two feet above FEMA standards. Enhanced stormwater management practices, public education about flood risks, along with stronger building standards, contributed to this achievement. Initiatives like mapping, regulations, and flood damage reduction efforts are pivotal in the city’s ongoing flood management strategy.
Recent initiatives in North Charleston include the newly adopted five-year review plan called PRIME North Charleston. This plan will assess flooding impacts on the community and establish resiliency goals for future development. Additionally, funding is being pursued for the rebuilding or relocating of properties that frequently suffer from flooding.
Current weather conditions are also a concern, as the City of Charleston has issued updates regarding road closures caused by flash flooding throughout the Lowcountry. A flooding advisory has been issued for the Church Creek Area of West Ashley due to rising water levels, with residents advised to avoid flooded roadways and refrain from walking or driving through floodwaters.
To assist residents during flooding events, the City of Charleston is offering free storm parking from 1 p.m. Friday until noon on Sunday at designated garages. Additionally, the North Charleston Police are providing live updates on road closures, while the Summerville Police have reopened roads that were previously closed due to flooding. It is also reported that Bear’s Bluff Road on Wadmalaw Island has been washed out, leading officials to redirect traffic via Liberia Road.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the upcoming meeting in Charleston?
The meeting will discuss various plans and projects related to flood mitigation, groundwater monitoring, and more.
When and where will the meeting take place?
The meeting will take place at 4 p.m. on September 18 and will be streamed live on YouTube.
What updates will be presented at the meeting?
Representatives from Charleston’s Basin Flood Action Committee will present data and updates on flood-related projects throughout the city.
How has North Charleston improved its FEMA rating?
North Charleston has advanced to a Class 5 rating due to a five-year verification process under FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program Community Rating System.
What discount will property owners in North Charleston receive on flood insurance premiums?
As of October 1, property owners in North Charleston will receive a 25% discount on flood insurance premiums, up from the previous 15% discount.
What current issues related to flooding are affecting Charleston?
The City of Charleston is issuing updates about flash flooding and road closures throughout the Lowcountry, including advisories for specific areas.
| Location | FEMA Rating | Flood Insurance Discount |
|---|---|---|
| North Charleston | Class 5 | 25% |
| Charleston County | Class 2 | 40% |
| Folly Beach | Class 3 | 35% |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
City Council Candidate Forum Held in Charleston
Charleston City Council Approves $2.5 Million for Flood Resilience
North Charleston Secures Class 5 FEMA Rating for Flood Insurance
Flash Flood Warning Issued for Charleston Metro Area
Charleston Airport Sees Record-Breaking Traveler Surge
Charleston Faces Severe Weather and Flash Flooding
Charleston Faces Record-Breaking Flooding Challenges
Charleston’s Initiative for 3,500 Affordable Housing Units
Charleston City Council Approves $73 Million Bond for Infrastructure
Charleston Faces Flooding Challenges Impacting Schools
Additional Resources
- ABC News 4: Charleston to Discuss Flood Plans
- Count on 2: Charleston City Staff to Preview Neighborhoods
- Post and Courier: Flood Insurance and FEMA Update
- Live 5 News: Road Closures and Flood Parking
- KTNV: Next Phase of Storm Drain Project in Charleston
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Google Search: Charleston flooding
- Google Scholar: Flood management Charleston
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood management
- Google News: Charleston flooding
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
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