Charleston County, September 8, 2025
News Summary
Charleston County is under a flash flood warning until 10 p.m. today as thunderstorms bring 2 to 3 inches of rain. Locations at risk include Downtown Charleston and North Charleston, where flooding has already rendered some roads impassable. Authorities urge residents to avoid driving through flooded areas and seek higher ground. A coastal flood advisory is also in effect, with water levels expected to rise further. Residents are urged to stay updated and exercise caution.
Charleston County Issues Flash Flood Warning Amid Heavy Rain
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flash flood warning for Charleston County, effective until 10 p.m. on September 7, 2025. The warning affects areas in southeast South Carolina, including Downtown Charleston, where severe thunderstorms and heavy rain have already been observed.
As of 4:20 p.m. local time, reports indicated that between 2 to 3 inches of rain had fallen, with the potential for an additional accumulation of 1 to 3 inches throughout the evening. Significant locations at risk for flash flooding include Marion Square, the Medical University of South Carolina, I-26 near mile marker 221, the Columbus Street Terminal, and The Citadel.
The flash flood warning has also been extended to certain areas of North Charleston, West Ashley, and Johns Island, set to expire at 7:15 p.m. Reports from North Charleston Police indicate that Meeting Street Road and Little Avenue are currently deemed “impassable” due to flooding, with slow-moving or standing water reported on numerous roads throughout the county.
A flood warning succeeded the flash flood warning at 6:30 p.m. and will remain effective until 10 p.m. In addition, the NWS has issued a coastal flood advisory from 7 to 10 p.m., predicting water levels may rise as much as 6 inches above ground level. High tide in Charleston Harbor is expected to peak at approximately 8:30 p.m. at a height of 7.2 feet, exacerbating flooding situations.
Authorities are emphasizing the dangers of driving through flooded roads; it takes just 12 inches of fast-moving water to carry off a small car, and 18 inches can sweep away larger vehicles. Residents are advised to avoid barricades and seek higher ground if flooding occurs, particularly those living in flood-prone areas.
This warning follows a particularly wet month of August in Charleston, where nearly 16 inches of rain fell, saturating the ground and increasing the risk for further flooding. As such, public safety announcements are widespread, urging caution among residents.
What to do during a flood warning:
- Avoid driving through flooded areas.
- Stay updated with local weather alerts.
- Seek higher ground if you live in a flood-prone area.
Summary of Current Flood Events:
| Location | Rainfall (Inches) | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Charleston | 2-3 (4:20 PM) | High |
| North Charleston | To be assessed | Medium |
| West Ashley | To be assessed | Medium |
| Johns Island | To be assessed | Medium |
FAQs:
What should I do if I experience flooding?
If you experience flooding, seek higher ground immediately and avoid driving through flooded areas. Stay tuned to local news sources for updates.
What areas are affected by the flash flood warning?
The flash flood warning affects Downtown Charleston, North Charleston, West Ashley, Johns Island, and other areas in Charleston County.
How much rain has fallen?
As of 4:20 p.m., between 2 to 3 inches of rain have already fallen in downtown Charleston, with an additional 1 to 3 inches possible.
What are the dangers of flooding?
Even 12 inches of fast-moving water can carry away a small car, while 18 inches can sweep away larger vehicles. Flash floods can occur without warning.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in the Carolinas and Capital Region
Beaufort County Authorities Seek Help in Locating Missing Persons
No-Swimming Advisory Issued for Hilton Head Island
South Carolina Beaches Face High Rip Current Risk from Hurricane Erin
Local Surfers Brace for Hurricane Erin’s Impact
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Oconee and Anderson County
Hurricane Erin Downgraded: Important Updates
Flood Warnings Issued in Charleston as Heavy Rainfall Continues
Charleston, SC Faces Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in Charleston and Colleton Counties
Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Count on 2 News
- ABC News 4 Charleston
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Post and Courier
- Wikipedia: Flash Flood
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- Google Search: Flash Flood Warning Charleston
- Google News: Charleston Flooding
- Google Scholar: Flood Preparedness
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
