Charleston, October 10, 2025
News Summary
A coastal flood warning has been issued for Charleston due to anticipated significant flooding on Thursday and Friday. High tides, rain, and gusty winds are expected, with flood impacts likely affecting low-lying areas and causing road closures. Residents are urged to avoid driving through standing water and take necessary precautions as the city implements emergency measures.
Charleston
A coastal flood warning has been issued for Charleston as significant flooding is anticipated on Thursday and Friday due to the combination of high tides, rain, and gusty northeast winds. The National Weather Service has identified the flood warning period from 8 a.m. on Thursday until 3 p.m. on Friday.
During this time, major saltwater flooding is possible, with high tide predicted to peak at 10:06 a.m. Thursday at 8.0 feet and 11:02 a.m. Friday at 8.5 feet. Flooding may occur two to three hours before and after the high tide peaks, particularly affecting low-lying areas which could have a significant impact on morning commutes on both days.
Residents and visitors are advised to expect road closures, primarily in downtown Charleston, and should refrain from driving or walking through standing water. In an effort to assist those impacted, the city will provide free parking at two garages: the Charleston Tech Center Garage located at 997 Morrison Drive and the 99 WestEdge Garage open from 7 a.m. Thursday until 4 p.m. Friday. Residents are cautioned against using ground-level parking as certain garage levels may get flooded during the peak tide times.
Beachgoers should also be cautious, as dangerous rip currents and high surf are forecasted along local beaches. A high rip current risk remains in effect through Thursday night. In addition to tidal concerns, wind gusts are expected to range from 30 to 35 mph from Thursday night into Saturday, leading to a small craft advisory for Charleston Harbor.
The city is currently engaged in preventive measures by clearing storm drains and ditches in known flooding areas and is pre-staging barricades for potential street closures. Forecasters predict that rainfall could accumulate to between 1-1.5 inches in Charleston County, further heightening the risk of flooding. Flooding conditions have the potential to reach “major flood stage” levels, which may result in widespread flooding of structures and roads.
Charleston has a history of dealing with significant tidal events, with past records showing tides of 12.52 feet during Hurricane Hugo in 1989, and nearly 10 feet during other recent storms. The categorization of tidal flooding includes minor at 7 feet, moderate at 7.5 feet, and major at 8 feet and above.
Key Coastal Flooding Information
- Flood Warning: 8 a.m. Thursday to 3 p.m. Friday
- High Tide Predictions:
- Thursday: 10:06 a.m. at 8.0 feet
- Friday: 11:02 a.m. at 8.5 feet
- Expected Rainfall: 1-1.5 inches
- Wind Gusts: 30 to 35 mph
- Free Parking Availability: Charleston Tech Center Garage and 99 WestEdge Garage (From Thursday 7 a.m. to Friday 4 p.m.)
Emergency Preparedness Measures
The city is mobilizing to reduce potential flooding impacts by clearing storm drains and pre-staging barricades for street closures. Residents are encouraged to remain updated on local advisories and flooding conditions as the weather develops.
Historical Context
Historically, Charleston has dealt with significant flooding events. For instance, during Hurricane Hugo, tides reached 12.52 feet, while other storms have seen levels nearly reach 10 feet. Understanding these historical patterns can help residents prepare for current flooding risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the coastal flood warning effective?
The flood warning is in effect from 8 a.m. Thursday to 3 p.m. Friday.
What are the predicted high tide levels?
The high tide is predicted at 8.0 feet at 10:06 a.m. Thursday and 8.5 feet at 11:02 a.m. Friday.
Where can I find free parking during the flood warning period?
Free parking will be available at the Charleston Tech Center Garage at 997 Morrison Drive and the 99 WestEdge Garage from 7 a.m. Thursday until 4 p.m. Friday.
What safety concerns should I be aware of during this time?
Residents should avoid driving or walking through standing water, and also be aware of dangerous rip currents and high surf along the beaches.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Flood Warning Period | 8 a.m. Thursday – 3 p.m. Friday |
| High Tide Predictions | Thursday at 10:06 a.m. (8.0 feet), Friday at 11:02 a.m. (8.5 feet) |
| Expected Rainfall | 1-1.5 inches |
| Wind Gusts | 30 to 35 mph |
| Free Parking Locations | Charleston Tech Center Garage & 99 WestEdge Garage |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Charleston Declares Local State of Emergency Ahead of Tropical Storm Imelda
Ashley River Crossing Bridge Closure for Construction
Charleston County Announces Finalists for Sticker Design Contest
Charleston Confronts Severe Flooding Challenges
Charleston to Discuss Flood Mitigation and Groundwater Monitoring
Additional Resources
- ABC News 4: Charleston Braces for Major Flooding
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Live 5 News: Tidal Flooding Threat
- Google Search: Charleston flooding
- Post and Courier: Flood Warning
- Google Scholar: Charleston flooding
- Live 5 News: Coastal Flood Warning
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flooding
- ABC News 4: Coastal Flooding Road Closures
- Google News: Charleston tidal 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.
