Flooding hits Charleston as powerful coastal storm from Carolina develops

On By Littum

A rapidly strengthening low pressure area off the Carolina coast will significantly impact the Outer Banks on Friday with damaging wind gusts, moderate to major coastal flooding and heavy rain.

As the storm began to develop, impacts began to unfold Thursday morning along the South Carolina coast amid a coastal flood warning for Charleston and Colleton counties.

The National Weather Service office in Charleston said the tide level at the Charleston Harbor tide gauge peaked in major flood stage at 8.08 feet, with moderate flood stage of 10.25 feet reported at Ft. Pulaski tide gauge.

Charleston City Police had closed several roads throughout downtown due to ongoing major saltwater flooding.

Coastal flooding could be seen in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, on Thursday as high tides affected low-lying areas.

Cape Hatteras National Seashore in North Carolina warns of hazardous conditions due to the low pressure system.

Strong winds, high surf and coastal flooding are expected through Saturday.

Beaches between Rodanthe and Buxton are closed due to debris hazards.

All campsites are open, but there is a possibility of flooding in low-lying areas.

As the storm develops, a coastal flood warning has been issued for Charleston and Colleton counties in South Carolina. Mount Pleasant Emergency Management
Charleston City Police had closed several roads across the area to prevent major flooding from occurring. Mount Pleasant Emergency Management

Storm Watch issued for much of coastal North Carolina

Due to the threat of northerly winds gusting up to 55 mph and dangerous seas, the National Weather Service has issued a Storm Watch for much of coastal North Carolina that will be in effect from Thursday evening through at least Friday.

The expected rainfall amounts for cities like Raleigh and Greensboro are expected to be relatively modest, around an inch or two, but coastal communities could experience significantly more, which combined with higher seas could lead to flooding.

“Mariners should prepare to remain in port, alter course and/or secure the vessel in rough conditions before conditions worsen,” NWS meteorologists warned boaters in the Carolinas.

Based on projections, coastal flooding of 2-4 feet could affect the outer banks, leading to overwashing of Highway 12 and additional erosion problems.

High tides have already affected low-lying areas as coastal flooding was seen across Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. FOX Weather

So far this year, four unoccupied homes have collapsed into the Atlantic Ocean, with more on the verge of doing the same.

During significant weather events, parts of the beaches around Rodanthe and Buxton are often closed due to hazardous waste.

Wildfires can dislodge pipes, wires and expose concrete, creating hazards for beachgoers and mariners.

The North Carolina Department of Transportation constantly monitors roads along the Outer Banks and occasionally closes the main thoroughfare when conditions warrant.

Only slow improvements are expected over the weekend as the storm system generally moves eastward across the Atlantic.

Astronomical king tides are expected to keep water levels elevated for an extended period due to the full moon cycle.

Tides occur when the Moon’s gravitational forces cause extreme water levels and only occur during full moon or new moon cycles.

An area of ​​high pressure is expected to build over the region over the coming week, which will help bring calmer and clearer conditions.