Attention, Charleston! King Tides Are Coming This Weekend!
Hey there, Charleston residents! It seems like Mother Nature has a little surprise for us this weekend. If you have plans to head downtown, you might want to keep an eye on the tides because significant King Tide flooding is expected on Saturday, November 16, and Sunday, November 17. Let’s break down what this means for you and how best to prepare!
What Are King Tides Anyway?
First off, let’s chat about what exactly King Tides are. These aren’t just your average high tides; they are the highest tides of the year, resulting from a combination of the moon’s gravitational pull and Earth’s position in relation to the sun. Think of them as a natural event that, while beautiful to observe, can cause some big problems if you’re not prepared. In Charleston, we might see water levels rise to about 8.1 feet on Saturday and around 7.9 feet on Sunday.
When Will It Happen?
Mark your calendars! The tides are set to roll in on:
- Saturday, November 16: The highest tide will hit around 7:46 am.
- Sunday, November 17: The peaks will occur around 8:39 am.
But don’t let those times fool you! Flooding can start happening 1 to 2 hours before and after these tidal peaks. So whether you’re going out for your morning coffee or planning a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, be prepared for some unexpected water.
What’s the Flooding Risk?
The City of Charleston is giving everyone a friendly heads-up to stay alert. Even with no rain in the forecast, those tides are strong enough to cause some serious flooding downtown. Water can rise quickly, and it can be a danger not only to you but to your car as well. While it may be tempting to try and navigate through flooded roads, remember the important safety rule: Turn around, don’t drown. It’s just not worth the risk!
Stay Safe, Charleston!
For everyone’s safety, please avoid driving around any barricades you might encounter along the way. Those barriers are there for a reason! They’re not just annoying roadblocks; they help keep everyone safe and guide traffic away from dangerous flooding.
How to Prepare
So, what can you do to stay safe this weekend? Here are a few tips:
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the latest updates from local officials.
- Adjust Your Plans: If you’re planning to visit downtown, consider heading out later or choosing a different route that avoids areas likely to flood.
- Be Mindful of Your Surroundings: If you see standing water on the road, it’s best to find a different path.
Flooding may not be an everyday occurrence here in Charleston, but it is a part of living in a coastal city. Let’s all work together to make sure everyone stays safe during this time of high tides. Share this info with your friends and family, so we can all enjoy a weekend without any unexpected watery surprises!
Enjoy the Weekend, Responsibly!
Whether you’re out enjoying our beautiful Charleston scenery or just hanging at home, remember to stay alert. King Tides might put a damper on your plans, but a little preparation can go a long way toward keeping you safe. Have fun, be cautious, and let’s weather this weekend together!
