Charleston, SC, August 10, 2025
News Summary
Charleston, South Carolina, is bracing for severe thunderstorms predicted to hit tonight, bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. Simultaneously, discussions continue around the restoration of the Robert E. Lee Highway marker after a legal resolution. Residents are advised to take precautions for potential storm damage while the city navigates the complexities of heritage and weather safety.
Charleston, South Carolina is facing two major developments: the restoration of the Robert E. Lee Highway marker following a legal battle and an impending forecast of severe thunderstorms over the region.
Residents in Charleston should prepare for storms, with weather forecasts predicting heavy rainfall and possible severe thunderstorms as early as tonight. The temperature is expected to reach around 80°F, with easterly winds at 5 to 10 mph. The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning effective until 8 PM, indicating that storms are moving from Meggett to near Kiawah Island at a pace of 25 mph, bringing wind gusts of up to 60 mph.
Local officials are advising residents to take necessary precautions against potential damage to roofs, siding, and trees. Specific areas mentioned in the warning include Johns Island, West Ashley, James Island, Hollywood, Folly Beach, Ravenel, Seabrook Island, Kiawah Island, Meggett, and Rockville. Residents are being urged to seek shelter in safe structures and avoid windows due to lightning risks. Additionally, torrential rainfall could lead to flash flooding, making it dangerous to drive through flooded roadways. Residents should report any storm damage to the Charleston National Weather Service when it is safe to do so.
On another front, after a legal dispute, plans to restore the Robert E. Lee Highway marker are underway. The controversy began in July 2021 when the Charleston County School District requested the removal of the marker from the Charleston Charter School for Math and Science. Heritage groups, including the American Heritage Association, contended that the removal violated the South Carolina Heritage Act. The monument was stored, and later taken by the local chapter of the United Daughters of the Confederacy.
Discussions are ongoing about potentially displaying the marker again, possibly in Marion Square, although the exact location remains unconfirmed. The president of the American Heritage Association indicated that the marker will be re-erected in downtown Charleston without revealing further specifications.
The legal matters related to the monument’s removal have been settled, allowing for its placement honoring heritage rights. Notably, Robert E. Lee, in his posthumous statements, expressed opposition to the creation of Confederate monuments, suggesting it would prolong the societal wounds of war. This provides an added layer of complexity to the ongoing discussions about the marker’s future.
For all residents, the data on the storm risk is significant—lightning strikes the U.S. approximately 25 million times annually, creating heightened concerns during thunderstorms. People are also reminded of the risk of hydroplaning while driving in wet conditions.
As Charleston prepares for both the thunderstorms and the restoration of the Lee Highway marker, residents are encouraged to stay informed and safe.
FAQ
What should residents do during severe thunderstorms?
Residents are advised to seek shelter in well-built structures, stay away from windows to avoid lightning strikes, and report any storm damage when it is safe to do so.
What is the status of the Robert E. Lee Highway marker?
The marker is set to be restored after a legal settlement regarding its removal. Plans are in discussion for its potential re-display, although the exact location is not yet confirmed.
What is the weather forecast for Charleston?
Thunderstorms are expected in Charleston with a high temperature near 80°F and an 80% chance of rain. Severe thunderstorms may bring wind gusts up to 60 mph.
Key Features of the Storm and Restoration
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Severe Thunderstorm Warning | August 10, 2025 | Effective until 8 PM; wind gusts up to 60 mph; rainfall expected. |
| Restoration of Robert E. Lee Highway Marker | Pending | Marker to be restored following legal resolution; location discussions ongoing. |
| Weather Advisory | August 10, 2025 | 80% chance of rain; temperatures around 80°F; torrential rainfall may lead to flash flooding. |
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Additional Resources
- Count on 2
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm
- ABC News 4
- Google Search: Charleston Weather
- Live 5 News
- Google Scholar: Charleston Thunderstorm Warnings
- Herald Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- WVGazette Mail
- Google News: Charleston Thunderstorm Warnings
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.
