A massive storm will sweep through the Lowcountry today bring flash flooding, damaging winds, and potential tornados.
A Coastal Flood Advisory is in effect from 4 to 10 a.m. Tuesday, with moderate coastal flooding and road closures expected. Areas near the Ashley River in Charleston are already experiencing flooding.
High Wind Warnings are issued for Beaufort, Charleston, coastal Colleton, and coastal Georgetown counties.
The winds are already ramping up this morning, with the highest reading so far in Beaufort at 48MPH;
Here are the latest peak wind reports. #scwx #gawx pic.twitter.com/IVjpidrTLe
— NWS Charleston, SC (@NWSCharlestonSC) January 9, 2024
Governor McMaster is warning all South Carolina residents to prepare for the worst throughout the day today.
South Carolinians should remain weather aware and take proper safety precautions as severe weather moves through the state today. https://t.co/i5TZlX7lpZ
— Gov. Henry McMaster (@henrymcmaster) January 9, 2024
Severe thunderstorms are likely between 2 to 6 p.m., with isolated tornadoes possible. The main concerns are tree damage and power outages. Large waves may cause beach erosion, but flooding is not a major concern. SCDOT may issue advisories for high-profile vehicles on bridges.
The storm is expected to clear by early Tuesday evening, leading to a windy and sunny Wednesday with cooler temperatures in the mid-50s.
Several Lowcountry school districts have moved to eLearning and closed offices for the day, including Charleston County, Berkeley County, Dorchester Districts Two and Four, and Georgetown County, which has a makeup day scheduled for February 20.
South Carolina Emergency Management officials remind all residents to:
- Keep enough water in your home for 3 days.
- Keep enough non-perishable food in your home for 3 days.
- Keep fresh batteries on hand for weather radios and flashlights.
- Dress warmly. Wear multiple layers of thin clothing instead of a single layer of thick clothing.
- Properly vent kerosene heaters and keep any electric generators outside and away from open windows or doors to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Never burn charcoal or operate grills indoors.
- Monitor changing forecasts and weather conditions closely.
- Keep an vehicle emergency kit, blankets, and sand/salt in your car.
- Top off all your vehicle’s fluids, especially your oil, power steering fluid, and antifreeze.
