News Summary
Charleston is getting ready for significant King Tides this weekend, with predictions of coastal flooding on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Expected peak tides are 8.1 feet on Saturday and 7.9 feet on Sunday, causing potential flooding in low-lying areas. Residents are urged to keep vehicles on higher ground and to avoid flooded roads, as local officials will set up barricades in affected areas. Stay informed and prepared for these rising water conditions.
Coastal Alert: Charleston Braces for King Tides This Weekend!
Hey there, Charleston! If you’re planning to spend some time along our beautiful coast this weekend, you might want to pay attention. City officials are predicting some major King Tides that could lead to significant coastal flooding, especially on Saturday and Sunday mornings. So, let’s break it down for you!
What Are King Tides, Anyway?
You might be wondering, “What’s the big deal with King Tides?” Well, King Tides are those much higher than normal tides that happen during a full or new moon. These tides can really shake things up along the coast and can result in flooding in low-lying areas. For reference, Charleston’s average high tide usually sits around 5.5 feet, but this weekend we’re looking at some heights that are off the charts!
When and Where to Expect the Tides
Mark your calendars folks! The tides are set to peak around 7:46 a.m. on Saturday at a whopping 8.1 feet and again at 8:39 a.m. on Sunday at about 7.9 feet. Be prepared for potential flooding to start about 1 to 2 hours before and after these predicted peak times. If your routine takes you to the water’s edge, it would be wise to keep a close eye on water levels.
Safety Precautions: Keep Your Car High and Dry!
For those of you who park on low ground, it may be time to find a new spot. Officials recommend relocating your vehicles to higher ground to avoid any damage that might come from the rising waters. It’s all about keeping your ride safe and sound!
If you encounter flooded roads, remember the important rule: “Turn around, don’t drown.” It only takes a mere 12 inches of water to carry away most cars, and get this—just 2 feet of rushing water can sweep away larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks! That’s a serious threat you don’t want to mess with.
Road Closures and Barricades
As you navigate around town, keep an eye out! The city will be placing barricades in flooded areas for safety. You should definitely avoid driving around those barriers. Streets in downtown Charleston like Harbor View Road, Central Park Road, and Battery Island Drive might experience flooding during an 8-foot tide. Your best bet? Check the city’s website for a list of affected road closures and updates in real-time.
Tips to Stay Prepared
Since King Tides can cause considerable flooding, it’s a smart idea to take some precautions. Clear any debris from your drains, monitor local water levels, and prepare your home if it’s prone to flooding. A little preparation can go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones safe!
No Rain, But Strong Tidal Forces Ahead!
And here’s something to note—no rain is forecast for this weekend, but that doesn’t mean we’re in the clear! The strong tidal forces alone are expected to create considerable flooding risks that we all should be aware of. It’s essential to stay informed about the conditions from the National Weather Service, which is warning about potential tidal flooding impacts all the way from Florida to Maine.
So Charleston, enjoy your weekend, but stay safe out there! Keep an eye on those water levels and don’t find yourself in a sticky situation. Trust us, you’ll thank yourself later!
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Additional Resources
- Count on 2 News
- Wikipedia: King Tide
- Post and Courier
- Google Search: King Tides Flooding Charleston
- Island Packet
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tide
- Fox Weather
- Google News: Charleston Flooding
