Cougar Alert: Flooding May Worsen in Downtown Charleston

By | September 25, 2020

This is an important advisory from the College of Charleston’s Cougar Alert Emergency Notification System.

Dear Campus Community,

The City of Charleston has opened the Public Safety Operation Center in response to flooding downtown. The next high tide is around 4 p.m. today and is forecasted to be 7 feet, which could make some roads impassable, damage property and pose hazards to pedestrians and motorists. More rainfall is expected throughout this afternoon. 

At this time, the College remains on its normal operating schedule. 

Be aware of the following:  

  • Expect road closures and flooding in low-lying areas.  
  • Avoid travel, if possible, and do not drive around barricades or through flood water of unknown depth. Vehicles can stall from driving or parking in flooded areas. 
  • Take necessary actions to protect flood-prone property. 
  • Dangerous rip currents can sweep even strong swimmers away from shore into deeper water. 

Many streets to the west of the CofC campus are prone to coastal flooding. These streets include Lockwood Boulevard, Wentworth Street, Barre Street, Ashley Avenue, Gadsden Street, Beaufain Street, Hagood Avenue and others. 

Additional Resources: 

  • Use the City of Charleston’s Tide eye website for important tidal and flooding information: https://gis.charleston-sc.gov/tideeye/  
  • Check the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Charleston for the latest weather advisories: https://www.weather.gov/chs/ 
  • Stay tuned to local news and weather stations for the latest updates.

-College of Charleston Emergency Management Team