Charleston Braces for Hurricane Milton’s Major Tidal Flooding and Offers Safety Resources

Charleston Prepares for Hurricane Milton’s Flooding

CHARLESTON, S.C. – As we gear up for the upcoming weather challenges, Charleston is on high alert in response to the expected major tidal flooding from Hurricane Milton. Our city has officially activated its Active Flood Mitigation Plan as we get ready for what could be significant impacts starting Thursday.

What to Expect

The National Weather Service has shared some serious news about the storm. With Hurricane Milton throwing in high northeast winds and a strong storm surge, we could see tides reaching up to 8.0 feet high at 1:50 p.m. this Thursday. If that wasn’t enough, the high tides expected on Friday at 2:08 a.m. and again at 2:57 p.m. could also lead to substantial flooding across our beloved city.

While the projections for rain are relatively modest, it’s always wise to stay tuned for updates. If Milton’s path shifts, we might face more severe conditions, so keeping an eye on the forecast is key. Our local officials want everyone to stay informed as the situation develops.

Getting Ready and Staying Engaged

In preparation, city officials are stressing the need for residents to be proactive. One of the simplest yet most effective actions is checking and clearing storm drains in front of your homes and businesses. Clearing these drains can play a crucial role in minimizing flooding on our roads. It’s a small community effort that can have a big impact!

Parking Garage Openings

Given the anticipated flooding, all city parking garages will be open starting Thursday at 9:00 a.m. until Friday, 8:30 a.m. (though this could change based on conditions). This is a great opportunity for residents to move their vehicles to higher ground and avoid potential water damage. Don’t forget, parking in these garages will be free during this time.

To take advantage of this offer, just press the call button when you exit and let the operator know that you’re using the free storm parking. It’s an easy way to keep your vehicle safe!

Sandbag Distribution: Get Prepared!

Another helpful resource is the sandbag distribution, which kicks off tomorrow, October 9, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Residents are encouraged to bring their own shovels and remember there’s a limit of 10 bags per household. This is an excellent way to fortify your property against potential flooding.

Several locations around the city will be set up for distribution, so check local channels for details. Sandbags can make a significant difference in protecting your home and reducing water entry.

Stay Informed and Prepared

As Hurricane Milton approaches, staying informed is essential. Keep checking in with local updates and follow the City of Charleston’s official channels for real-time information on the storm’s progress and local impact. Regular updates will be provided from the National Weather Service, ensuring residents are kept in the loop.

In the face of these challenges, let’s band together as a community. Following these preparation measures and staying informed will go a long way. We’re all in this together, Charleston, so keep your spirits up and take care of one another. Stay safe, everyone!