Charleston, October 12, 2025
News Summary
Charleston is experiencing significant coastal flooding, resulting in the cancellation of the popular October 2nd Sunday event on King Street. Authorities issued a coastal flood warning as water levels reached critical heights, prompting road closures and heightened safety measures. While the street will remain closed to vehicles on October 12, the event is set to resume on November 9. The ongoing heavy rainfall, expected high tides, and the supermoon phenomenon may exacerbate the flooding situation.
Charleston is facing significant coastal flooding, leading to the cancellation of the October 2nd Sunday event on King Street. Organizers made this decision primarily to ensure public safety and facilitate clean-up efforts in the flood-affected areas. King Street, known for its bustling weekend events, will remain closed to vehicles on October 12. However, the monthly event is scheduled to return on November 9.
The flooding situation in downtown Charleston prompted authorities to implement several road closures as a coastal flood warning was issued. The National Weather Service (NWS) indicated that high tide is expected to occur around noon on Saturday, with water levels projected to reach approximately 8 feet. This marks a significant concern, as Charleston Harbor reached its major flood stage level of 8 feet early Saturday morning.
It’s important to note that flooding typically begins when water levels hit the 7-foot mark. As of 1:54 p.m. on Saturday, multiple roads in downtown Charleston were confirmed closed due to rising floodwaters. The coastal flood warning for Charleston and surrounding coastal Colleton Counties remains in effect until 3 p.m. on Saturday, indicating heightened risks for residents and travelers.
In addition to the flooding, heavy rainfall of around half an inch is anticipated, with the potential for locally heavy rainfall occurring in some areas. Meteorologist Joey Sovine has noted that a steady rain is expected through the evening hours, with a possibility of lingering showers continuing into the night. Moreover, the forecast includes additional high tides on October 10, with projections suggesting levels could reach as high as 8.6 feet in Charleston Harbor.
The combination of these high tides and significant rainfall is expected to exacerbate flooding conditions, which may fall into the category of “major flood stage” levels. In Berkeley County, the flooding impacts are anticipated to be less severe, contingent upon whether coastal tides reach the major flood levels as predicted.
Despite the challenging situation, tourists and locals have been seen navigating the floodwaters in downtown Charleston, particularly in the City Market area. Adding to the complexity, a supermoon on October 7 coincides with king tides, contributing to some of the highest astronomical tides observed this year.
For reference, flooding classifications based on water levels indicate that minor flooding begins at 7 feet, moderate flooding at 7.5 feet, and major flooding at 8 feet. The highest tide ever recorded in Charleston Harbor was 12.52 feet during Hurricane Hugo in 1989. Recent flooding events of note in Charleston include a nor’easter in December 2023 and Hurricane Idalia, both events leading to significant high tides.
Emergency management and public safety officials in the area have been proactively preparing for the impacts of flooding. This preparation includes increased staffing levels and the readiness of high-water vehicles for response operations. Reports suggest that vendors at City Market are adapting to the flooding situation, noting marked improvements in how quickly floodwaters recede compared to previous incidents.
FAQ
What event was cancelled due to flooding?
The October 2nd Sunday event on King Street in Charleston has been cancelled due to major coastal flooding in the area.
When will the King Street event return?
The monthly King Street event will return on November 9.
What are the expected high tide levels for this situation?
High tide is expected to peak around 8 feet based on projections.
What classification is given to minor and major flooding?
Minor flooding starts at 7 feet, moderate flooding at 7.5 feet, and major flooding at 8 feet according to measurements taken at the Cooper River tidal gauge.
Key Features of Coastal Flooding Impact
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event Cancellation | October 2nd Sunday event cancelled |
| Next Event Date | November 9 |
| Peak Water Level Forecast | Expected high tide at 8 feet |
| Flooding Classifications | Minor: 7 feet; Moderate: 7.5 feet; Major: 8 feet |
| Emergency Preparations | Increased staffing and high-water vehicles ready |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Charleston Faces Severe Coastal Flooding and Road Closures
Charleston Under Coastal Flood Advisory
Nor’easter Impacts East Coast with Flooding and High Winds
Charleston Police Announce Road Closures for Citadel Home Game
Downtown Charleston Faces Severe Coastal Flooding
Coastal Flooding Hits Downtown Charleston
Remembering Davis William Reeves
Coastal Flood Warning Issued for Charleston
Charleston Under Coastal Flood Warning as King Tides Hit
Charleston Prepares for Major Coastal Flooding During High Tides
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Downtown Streets Close Amid Saturday Tidal Flooding
- Count On 2: List of Charleston Roads Closed Due to Tidal Flooding
- ABC News 4: Charleston Harbor Reaches Major Flood Stage Ahead of High Tide
- Fox Weather: Coastal Flooding Watch
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Coastal 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.
