Charleston Prepares for Potential Flooding from Upcoming King Tides

Keep an Eye on Those King Tides, Charleston!

Hey there, Charleston! As we gear up for beautiful fall days, there’s something important we should put on our radar—King Tides. You may have heard this term before, but let’s break it down a bit so we’re all on the same page!

What Are King Tides?

Simply put, King Tides are extreme high tides that happen a few times a year, usually during a full or new moon. These tides can rise up to 7 feet or higher, which is significantly more than our typical high tide of around 5.5 feet. As you can imagine, that extra push from the ocean can create some serious flooding issues, especially in low-lying areas around town.

Where Are We Most Affected?

Areas like Seabrook Island, Johns Island, and parts of Charleston can see a lot of impact from these events. Picture this: streets that are normally safe and dry can turn into little rivers when a King Tide hits. It’s even worse if there’s also heavy rain or strong winds. So, if you’re in these areas, it’s a good idea to stay alert!

Planning Ahead

Before that predicted King Tide rolls in, take a moment to clear any debris blocking your storm drains. Trust us, this small act can make a big difference in how much water pools up in your neighborhood! If your home is prone to flooding during these high tides, it might be wise to prepare your ground floor. Move furniture, elevate appliances, or place sandbags to help keep the water at bay.

Safety First!

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has a friendly reminder for all of us: “Use caution in areas that are impacted by flooding.” It’s critical to know that just 12 inches of water can carry away most cars, and a staggering 2 feet of rushing water can sweep away SUVs and trucks. If you come across barricades or streets that look flooded, the best advice is to turn around, don’t drown.

Documenting the Impact

South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC). They are leading the South Carolina King Tides Initiative to track how these extreme tide events affect our beautiful beaches, coastal waterways, and even our homes and infrastructure. This initiative is vital for understanding the bigger picture, so keep your eyes peeled for information coming out about their findings!

Other Important Tidbits

Let’s not forget that flooding can also happen on regular high tide days if there’s a lot of rain or wind. So, keep those weather alerts on your phone and always evaluate conditions before heading out!

Wrapping Up