Updated: 5 p.m. July 1 | Heavy rain swept through Charleston July 1 afternoon, with the National Weather Service (NWS) estimating between 2 and 4 inches of rainfall across the county over a two hour period.
Charleston Police reported 33 roads or intersections were closed due to the flooding. More than 30 were still closed as of 5 p.m.
The NWS forecasts a second round of thunderstorms in the early evening, which could bring more flooding.
High tide is expected to be at 6.3 feet at 5:09 p.m., compounding with the heavy rain. There’s a significant risk of life-threatening and property-damaging flooding, according to the NWS.
In response to the forecasts, Charleston Mayor William Cogswell activated the city’s Active Flooding Mitigation Plan at 9 a.m., signaling a coordinated effort by city departments.
The Charleston Police Department is loading barricades and will place them in advance of flooding on vulnerable streets across the peninsula.
Multiple pumps will be deployed today to manage water levels, according to a press release. The city also will monitor the Church Creek Basin in West Ashley and clean city drains and ditches to mitigate potential blockages. Lake Dotterer was lowered yesterday, and Colonial Lake’s valves have been set for outflow, the city said.
Residents are urged to secure garbage cans and remove any potential debris from storm drains in front of homes and businesses to prevent blockages. Sweepers, trash and garbage crews will be on standby to clean up any debris today. Department of Livability teams will assist in identifying and clearing debris and litter to mitigate potential blockages.
PARKING: Free parking is available starting today at 11 a.m. until 8 a.m. Tuesday at the parking garages at 99 West Edge St., Charleston Tech Center (997 Morrison Drive), and the 34 St. Philip St. s. When exiting the garages, press the call button and inform the operator you are taking advantage of the city’s free storm parking. Residents are asked not to use parking garages in the Medical District, which are intended for staff and patients.
And when the sun comes out …
After the rain, the NWS is predicting dangerously high temperatures that could continue through the weekend. But there are things you can do to stay cool as temperatures soar. Consider these tips:
If you’re inside: Keep comfortable without air-conditioning by spritzing your skin periodically with a mist of cool water. Also, block out windows that get lots of sun to keep heat out. At night, open windows and run fans. Avoid strenuous exercise. Try not to use your stove or oven.
Stay hydrated: Drink even when you’re not thirsty, experts say. You can also eat fruits that have water in them. (But avoid salty foods and hot soups.) Make sure to hydrate before you go to bed.
Monitor your body: Watch for heat exhaustion, which the C.D.C. says can include heavy sweating, cold and clammy skin, a weak pulse, nausea, cramps and more. If you experience symptoms, lie down, sip water, loosen clothes and even take a cool bath. You may need to seek medical attention if it worsens or your body temperature rises too high.
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