Hazardous Weather Conditions in Charleston
The City of Charleston has issued an update on preparations for potentially hazardous weather conditions. The measures are part of Mayor William Cogswell’s Active Flooding Mitigation Plan, with a focus on ensuring the safety and well-being of local residents and the overall community.
Weather Forecast Overview
Rain is anticipated to begin by late morning with intensification throughout the day. The peak period of heavy rain is forecast for tonight from 8:00 p.m. to midnight. The high possibility of flooding from rainfall and an elevated tide during evening high tide is a concern. The heavy rainfall is expected to persist into Saturday morning, coinciding with the morning high tide, albeit at a lower rate. Friday’s high tide is expected at 7:27 p.m. (6.8 feet) and Saturday at 7:43 a.m. (6.7 feet). Overall, approximately 1.5-2.5 inches of rain is projected from Friday through Saturday.
Parking Information
Parking will be complimentary between 4:00 p.m. today and noon tomorrow at the 99 West Edge and the Charleston Tech Center parking garages. All city garages will also be open for residents who need more convenience. However, residents are asked to avoid the parking garages in the Medical District as they are needed for staff and patients.
Traffic and Transportation Measures
The Charleston Police Department (CPD) has readied barricades which will be placed on vulnerable streets ahead of the flooding. Additionally, signal technicians are on standby for any required traffic and transportation adjustments or repairs. The most recent information on road closures can be found through a designated link provided by the city.
Stormwater Management
The city will be actively managing water levels at Lake Dotterer and Colonial Lake, which have been lowered ahead of time. The municipality also plans to deploy four pumps today. The city and county drains and ditches will also be monitored and cleaned to mitigate potential clogs. Temporary pumps are planned to be installed in vulnerable areas of the city.
Emergency Response and Staffing
High-water vehicles are on standby at the fire department with one ready to deploy from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. tomorrow, and a second vehicle on reserves. City departments are also being staffed up through tomorrow for additional support for operations.
Garbage and Debris Preparation
The city has urged residents to secure garbage cans and remove potential debris from storm drains in front of their homes and businesses to prevent blockages. The city’s Department of Livability is using the CHS Trashtracker app to notify residents about garbage and debris cleanup efforts.
Final Note
Under the guidance of Mayor Cogswell, Charleston Fire Department Chief Dan Curia, Chief of Staff Elizabeth Dieck, and all city staff, the City of Charleston is prepared to ensure the safety of its residents amid these challenging weather conditions. Residents are urged to stay informed and can find additional information and updates through the city’s official website and social media channels.
