New Global Entry Enrollment Center in Charleston

Charleston International Airport (CHS), in partnership with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), is pleased to announce the opening of a new Global Entry Enrollment Center at Charleston International Airport.

This new center will expand access to the Trusted Traveler Program, allowing South Carolina residents to complete their Global Entry interview process without traveling out of state.

The newly opened Global Entry location is:

  • Charleston International Airport – CBP Office
    5551 Porsche Blvd, Suite 102, North Charleston, SC 29418
  • Phone: 843-552-2696
  • Hours: Monday – Friday, 10:00 am – 2:00 pm

Enrollment appointments at Charleston International Airport are now available for booking (no walk-in appointments). To schedule your Global Entry interview, use the official TTP website to book an appointment at the preferred enrollment center.

Applicants must bring their current passport, driver’s license, and proof of residency to their interview.

Global Entry is a CBP Trusted Traveler Program (TTP) that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. All applicants undergo rigorous and recurring background checks and complete an in-person interview before enrollment. Global Entry is available at major U.S. Airports and Preclearance locations, offering reduced wait times and eliminating paperwork. Members can use automated kiosks at select airports to bypass traditional customs processing lines.

Tidelines Editors

(Image credit: cbp.gov)

Weather Alert: Flash Flooding

Portions of Seabrook Island Road between the SIPOA Security Gate and Freshfields are currently flooded. In addition, there are several places within Seabrook Island that are flooding. Motorists are advised to avoid traveling on Seabrook Island Road unless absolutely necessary.

The National Weather Service has issued a
FLASH FLOOD WARNING
for our area.

Slow-moving thunderstorms are currently moving through Charleston County. As much as 3 inches of rain has fallen so far today, and an additional 1 to 2 inches could fall. Flash flooding is ongoing in many areas throughout the region and will continue into the afternoon. A new daily rainfall record has already been set at the Charleston International Airport.

If you come across flooded roads, remember the safety rule: Turn around, don’t drown.

-Submitted by The Town of Seabrook Island

Weather Alert: Potential for Flash Flooding

The National Weather Service has issued an alert about a stalled cold front near our region that is expected to bring increasingly unsettled weather this afternoon through Monday.

Multiple rounds of moderate to heavy rainfall are forecast, significantly increasing the risk of flash flooding. A Flood Watch may be issued for portions of our area. Additionally, NWS Charleston is implementing its new flash flood warning criteria starting today.

Timing & Hazards:

Heavy Rain/Flash Flooding:

  • The greatest risk is from Friday afternoon through Monday
  • Expected rainfall totals: Inland: 2–4”; Coastal areas: 4–6” with localized amounts >6”
  • Urban and low-lying areas may experience flooding and impassable roads, particularly near high tide

    Severe Thunderstorms:

    • Potential for isolated strong wind gusts up to 60 mph this afternoon/evening

      Heat:

      • Heat indices of 108–112°F are expected this afternoon
      • Heat Advisory in effect for the entire area

        Forecast Confidence:

        • Moderate confidence for flash flood potential
        • Low confidence for precise location and timing of rainfall totals

          Reminders & Resources:

            If you come across flooded roads, remember the safety rule: Turn around, don’t drown.

            Tidelines Editors

            Central Park Rd, James Island Temporarily Closed Starting June 9

            Are you one of the many Seabrookers who take Riverland Drive to and from Folly Road on James Island using Central Park Road? This is the James Island side shortcut at the end of the Stono Bridge, which connects James Island and Johns Island.

            The Post and Courier reports that Charleston County will close Central Park Road between Riverland Drive and Fleming Road on James Island from June 9 to November 2025. They will be elevating the road to relieve flooding issues.

            They are further reporting that both the city and county are working on several additional projects to help alleviate flooding on that part of James Island. The drainage project between Riverland Drive and Fleming Road is scheduled for completion by spring 2026.

            Tidelines Editors

            (Image credit: Lowcountry Senior Center)

            Weather Alert

            The National Weather Service (NWS) is watching a low-pressure system off the coast of Florida. This system will move up toward our area later today and is expected to linger through Thursday before moving away from our region on Friday. The system has a low chance of acquiring tropical or subtropical characteristics, but the NWS says its impacts will be similar regardless of development status

            With high tide occurring today around 4:00 pm, there is a chance for localized flooding, particularly in low-lying areas and during the evening commute.

            At this time, impacts for our area could include:

            • Rainfall totals of 1–3 inches are expected along and east of I-95, with higher totals in the Charleston Tri-County area and Downtown Charleston. 
            • Breezy conditions, particularly near the beaches, with a 15–25% chance of wind gusts exceeding 40 mph, which could cause isolated power outages.
            • A Moderate Risk for rip currents, which may increase through the end of the week.
            • Marine hazards, including rough seas and potential Small Craft Advisories.

            If you come across flooded roads, remember the safety rule:
            Turn around, don’t drown.

            Tidelines Editors

            Weather Alert: Flooding Possible This Evening

            As reported yesterday, we are in the midst of a King Tide event. It is anticipated that the high tide in Charleston is expected to reach 7.1 feet this evening around 7:22 pm, according to the National Weather Service

            The greatest chance for showers and storms is from now until 9:00 pm., some of which could become severe due to damaging wind gusts and brief heavy rainfall, according to the NWS. 

            A Coastal Flooding Advisory will be in effect from 6:00 – 9:00 pm. Flooding can occur 1-2 hours before and after peak high tide. 

            It is important that you do not drive through standing water. Not only can your brakes get wet and your car become flooded, but you don’t know what the condition of the road is under the water. And please, avoid driving around barricades —they’re there for your safety.

            If you come across flooded roads, remember the safety rule: Turn around, don’t drown.

            CLOSURE ALERT: The Freshfields Village exit near The Station is temporarily closed due to flooding.

            Tidelines Editors

            REAL ID Requirement Deadline May 7

            Remember REAL ID? In case you have forgotten, REAL ID is a federal identification card that shows you have met minimum security standards. After years of delays and postponements, effective May 7, 2025, every US resident, 18 years and older must have a REAL ID compliant driver’s license, passport, or military ID to fly domestically, enter secure federal buildings, or visit military installations. This requirement, established by the REAL ID Act of 2005, aims to enhance security standards for state-issued identification documents.

            Not sure if your driver’s license qualifies? Here’s how to check:

            All REAL ID licenses have the gold star in the upper right corner of the license. If yours does not and you are planning to fly domestically, here’s what you will need to do before May 7, 2025.

            Continue reading “REAL ID Requirement Deadline May 7”

            REAL ID Requirement Deadline May 7

            Remember REAL ID? In case you have forgotten, REAL ID is a federal identification card that shows you have met minimum security standards. After years of delays and postponements, effective May 7, 2025, every US resident, 18 years and older, must have a REAL ID compliant driver’s license (passport or military ID) to fly domestically, enter secure federal buildings, or visit military installations. This requirement, established by the REAL ID Act of 2005, aims to enhance security standards for state-issued identification documents.

            Not sure if your drivers license qualifies? Here’s how to check:

            All REAL ID licences have the gold star in the upper right corner of the license. If yours does not, and you are planning on flying domestically, here’s what you will need to do before May 7, 2025.

            Continue reading “REAL ID Requirement Deadline May 7”

            New Requirement For Traveling Through or To the UK

            According to the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs:

            Effective January 8, 2025, all U.S. citizens transiting through or traveling to the United Kingdom for tourism, family visits, business meetings, conferences, or short-term study for 6 months or less will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to travel. U.S. citizens can apply for ETAs beginning on November 27, 2024. Information on the new requirements and how to apply can be found on the UK Government website.

            Barron’s printed an article in September 2024 explaining that Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is similar to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) system in the United States which many people need to travel into the USA. This requirement is part of a larger global shift toward digital border controls.

            You can apply for this authorization through the UK ETA app or directly at Gov.UK. It is quick and simple to use and applicants should get a decision within hours. To get information about applying either on your smartphone or online click here to go to the UK Government website for directions.

            If you are not a US Citizen or are unsure if you need a UK ETA, click here.

            The cost of an ETA is £10 or about $13. It lasts two years or until the holder’s passport expires. When the ETA is granted, it is digitally linked to a traveler’s passport and allows stays of up to six months at a time.

            Tidelines Editors

            (Image credit: GOV.UK/Logopedia/Fandom)

            City of Charleston Holiday Parking Passes

            The City of Charleston, South Carolina offers a free two-hour parking voucher for the holiday shopping season: 

            • When: November 29–December 31, 2024 
            • Where: Participating garages downtown, including Saint Philip Street, Visitor Center, Majestic Square, and Queen Street 
            • How to use: Get a ticket from a participating garage, insert it at the reader when exiting, and scan the QR code in the voucher 
            • Limitations: One voucher per vehicle, not valid during special event rates, and other exclusions may apply 
            • More information: For more information and to get the parking voucher’s QR Code, click here.

            On-street parking meters in Charleston are active Monday through Saturday, 9:00 am–6:00 pm, and do not require payment on Sundays and official city holidays. 

            -Submitted by City of Charleston

            (Image credit: Clipart Library)

            Traffic Alert: Freshfields Circle Friday July 19

            There will be storm drain cleaning on Kiawah Island Parkway on Friday, July 19, starting at 8:00 am and finishing late afternoon between Freshfields Village and the Andell West entrance in the morning; then switch over to the outbound side of the parkway in the afternoon.

            This may impact the traffic around the circle heading towards Kiawah as cars may be backed up heading down the parkway.

            Alternate traffic patterns will be in place and personnel will redirect those on the leisure trail.

            -Town of Kiawah Island