South Carolina Weather Alert: Coastal Flooding to Persist Through Sunday as Fall Storms Batter Charleston
CHARLESTON, S.C. — Strong northeast winds and pounding surf are causing coastal flooding and erosion across the Charleston area, with warnings in effect through Sunday morning as a powerful fall storm remains stalled just offshore.
High Surf and Flood Warnings in Effect
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, both a High Surf Advisory and a Coastal Flood Warning are active through early Sunday. The system is producing large breaking waves up to 8 feet and persistent onshore winds, which are expected to cause minor to moderate flooding during each high tide cycle.
Forecasters say saltwater inundation may reach two feet above ground level in the city’s most flood-prone zones, particularly along U.S. Highway 17 and East Bay Street downtown. Low-lying roads, parking lots, and neighborhoods are likely to experience flooding through the weekend.
Travel and Beach Safety Warnings
Officials urge residents and visitors to avoid flooded roads and never drive through standing water. “Turn around, don’t drown,” the NWS advised, warning that water depth and current strength can change quickly near high tide.
Beachgoers are also being told to stay out of the surf, as strong rip currents will persist through late Saturday. Emergency crews are on standby for localized power outages and blocked coastal routes, especially during morning high tides.
Conditions to Improve by Late Weekend
Meteorologists expect showers and gusty winds to ease gradually by Saturday evening, with drier, calmer weather arriving Sunday. Highs will climb back to the mid-70s, bringing a more pleasant start to the new week.
Five-Day Charleston Forecast
- Friday: 71°/64° – Breezy with showers; flooding likely near high tide.
- Saturday: 71°/64° – Scattered showers; lingering high surf.
- Sunday: 74°/63° – Partly sunny; milder conditions return.
- Monday: 78°/63° – Sunny and calm; ideal for fall activities.
- Tuesday: 77°/62° – Mostly sunny; seasonal pattern continues.
The Saluda Standard-Sentinel encourages readers to share photos and local flood updates from coastal South Carolina at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
