Charleston, South Carolina, August 16, 2025
News Summary
Downtown Charleston, South Carolina is currently under a Flash Flood Watch due to heavy rain and thunderstorms. Rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches, with potential for up to 3 inches, are forecasted. Emergency services have adjusted operations, advising residents to avoid unnecessary travel. The National Weather Service warned of possible severe weather impacts and reminded citizens to remain vigilant.
Charleston, South Carolina Faces Severe Thunderstorms and Flash Flooding
A Flash Flood Watch has been issued for downtown Charleston, South Carolina, as heavy rain and high tides impact the area. The National Weather Service (NWS) reported that thunderstorms are moving across the region, bringing with them the potential for significant rainfall and flash flooding through early Tuesday morning.
According to radar data, rainfall amounts between 1 to 2 inches are expected, with projections indicating that additional rainfall could reach up to three inches. The slow-moving storms may produce rainfall rates of two or more inches per hour, increasing the risk of flooding in vulnerable areas.
In response to the worsening conditions, Charleston County Emergency Medical Services (EMS) have modified their operations. EMS personnel are only transporting patients to the nearest appropriate hospital as safely as possible. Residents are being urged to stay off the roads until floodwaters recede, unless travel is absolutely necessary, as numerous road closures have already been implemented due to flooding.
Reports show that vehicles have become stranded in floodwaters, adding to the risks faced by those who venture onto the road during the storms. The NWS noted that nearly one inch of rain had already fallen by mid-morning, with a severe thunderstorm warning remaining in effect for much of the Charleston area until 2 p.m.
The severe storms have affected Charleston and surrounding counties, including Berkeley and Dorchester, although the primary line of strong storms has mostly dissipated by early afternoon. However, isolated severe thunderstorms are still possible, with the main threats being damaging winds that could result in damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Fallen trees and limbs pose a risk of knocking down power lines, leading to potential power outages.
As part of the ongoing weather concerns, a tornado warning had been issued earlier for Charleston, Colleton, and Beaufort counties, but it was lifted shortly after 10 a.m. With authorities monitoring the situation closely, residents are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for changing weather conditions.
Background Context
The coastal region of South Carolina is no stranger to severe weather, especially during the peak of the storm season. The presence of both thunderstorms and high tides adds to the complexity and risks associated with floods in urban areas such as Charleston. As the city continues to deal with the effects of recent weather patterns, emergency services are preparing for possible further impacts.
Forecast Summary
- Flash Flood Watch in effect for downtown Charleston.
- Heavy rainfall between 1 to 2 inches expected, with projections up to three inches.
- Slow-moving storms could lead to two or more inches of rainfall per hour.
- Severe thunderstorms could produce damaging winds and falling debris.
- Residents advised to avoid unnecessary travel until floodwaters recede.
FAQ Section
- What is a Flash Flood Watch?
- A Flash Flood Watch indicates that conditions are favorable for flash flooding to occur in the specified area.
- How much rain is expected in Charleston?
- Rainfall amounts are projected to be between 1 to 2 inches, with additional rainfall potentially reaching three inches in some areas.
- What should residents do during severe weather?
- Residents are advised to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary and to be alert for flash flooding and potential severe weather alerts.
- Are emergency services responding to the situation?
- Yes, Charleston County EMS has modified operations, only transporting patients to the closest hospitals as safely as conditions allow.
Key Features of the Storm Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Flash Flood Watch | In effect for downtown Charleston |
| Expected Rainfall | 1 to 2 inches, with potential for up to 3 inches |
| Storm Speed | Slow-moving storms, up to 2 inches per hour |
| Severe Thunderstorm Warning | In effect until 2 p.m. with isolated severe threats |
| Emergency Response | Modified EMS transport operations |
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Additional Resources
- Fox Weather: Charleston SC Flooding August 2025
- Wikipedia: Charleston, South Carolina
- Live 5 News: Thunderstorm Warning
- Google Search: Charleston SC flooding Aug 2025
- Weather.com: Charleston Weather
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Charleston
- ABC News 4: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Google News: Charleston thunderstorm
- Post and Courier: Thunderstorms and Power Outages
- Google Scholar: Charleston SC weather impact
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.
