Category: Weather

Weather Update

Weather Alert #3

Great news from the National Weather Service this morning. Experts say based on the latest forecast, the storm is taking a hard right turn and tracking away from coastal South Carolina. At this time, Charleston County’s anticipated impacts are limited to 2–4 inches of rain and minor beach erosion.

We are urging residents and renters to pay attention to local meteorologists’ forecasts. The Town will continue to follow guidance from federal, state, and county leaders and provide updates as needed.

-Submitted by Town of Seabrook Island

Weather Advisory

Weather Alert #2

The Town of Seabrook Island is continuing to monitor what is now potential Tropical Cyclone Nine. Governor Henry McMaster declared a State of Emergency for South Carolina at 5:00 pm Friday, September 26, 2025. Mayor Bruce Kleinman also declared a State of Emergency for the Town of Seabrook Island at 5:00 pm Friday, September 26, 2025.

Weather experts say this disturbance is forecast to become a tropical depression on Saturday and then become Tropical Storm Imelda by Sunday. Potential impacts could be felt early next week. This system could be at or near hurricane intensity if it approaches the southeast coast next week.

Local and state leaders are asking people to plan ahead this weekend for the potential impacts. Please review your emergency plans and ensure your emergency kits are fully stocked.

We are urging residents and renters to pay attention to local meteorologists’ forecasts starting now. The Town will continue to follow guidance from federal, state, and county leaders and will provide updates throughout the weekend.

-Submitted by Town of Seabrook Island

Weather Advisory

Weather Alert #1

The National Weather Service has released the latest information on the two areas of interest in the tropics.

Tropical Storm Humberto- TS Humberto has formed in the lower Atlantic east of the Dominican Republic. Weather officials have a reasonable belief that while this storm will become a hurricane, it will not have effects on Charleston County past a rip current risk on our beaches.

Disturbance 1 (Imelda if named)- We continue to monitor this disturbance which currently has a 70% chance of forming in the next 48 hours and 90% percent in the next 7 days.

As of this afternoon, Thursday, September 25, 2025, local meteorologists say new models indicate a more westward shift towards our coastline. If we get impacts, it would be on Monday and Tuesday of next week.

We are urging residents and renters to pay attention to local meteorologists’ forecasts. We will continue to monitor the tropics and send out updates throughout the weekend.

-Submitted by Town of Seabrook Island

Hurricane Season Peaks September 10

While the past several weeks have been quiet on the tropical weather front, the Atlantic is waking up. Currently, the National Hurricane Center is watching one system. Things can change quickly. 

Roughly 90% of all Atlantic tropical weather typically occurs in August, September, and early October. Hurricane season peaks on September 10. The majority of the biggest storms have appeared within a week or two of September 10.

Now is the time to complete your hurricane preparations. Tidelines began publishing our Hurricane Hints series back in 2017. You can find our Hurricane Hints anytime on the Tidelines website. Use the Hurricane Hints dropdown menu.

Remember, be prepared; stay safe.

–Tidelines Editors

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: Hurricane Erin Impact

The National Weather Service reports Hurricane Erin is a large, strong CAT 2 hurricane. As it moves NW then North it will bring a large swell to the east coast which will cause an extended period of dangerous surf conditions and minor to moderate erosion at area beaches. A High Risk of rip currents is in place today. A High Surf Advisory is in effect through Thursday evening. Experts are warning people to please stay out of the water.

-Submitted by Town of Seabrook Island

Weather and Rip Current Alert

Early on Friday, August 15, 2025, the first hurricane of the Atlantic 2025 season formed. Hurricane Erin is projected to slide up the East Coast beginning early this week.

Currently, the main threats to the Lowcountry will be very large waves, dangerous surf, and rip currents through the week. Beach erosion is also possible.

Over the coming days, you are encouraged to exercise caution and consider avoiding the water if conditions have worsened. Stay tuned to local weather forecasts before heading to the beach.

If you get caught in a rip current, stay calm. It won’t pull you under, but it will pull you away from the shore. Instead:

  • Float, or if you are a strong swimmer, swim parallel to the shore. 
  • Yell for help to those on the shore.
  • If you see someone in distress in the water, call or text Beach Patrol at (843) 718-6083.
  • If you have something that floats, you can push this towards the person, but don’t attempt to rescue them yourself.

To learn more about rip currents, click here. 

–Tidelines Editors

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

            Midsummer Hurricane Preparedness Checklist 2025

            Early September is peak hurricane season, so now is the time to complete any unfinished projects from the Early Summer Hurricane Preparedness Checklist and to move on to these important actions.

            Prepare for any medical needs:

            • Click here for suggestions about planning for medication, medical equipment, and medical care needs.

            Prepare for your pets’ needs:

            • Click here for more information.

            Prepare for your neighbors:

            • Talk to your neighbors about your needs and theirs regarding preparing ahead for the storm and in the event of a major disaster. Consider exchanging keys. Click here for more information. 

            Identify evacuation needs and options:

            • Will you need a handicapped room?
            • Will you need electric vehicle charging facilities?
            • Do you need a pet-friendly hotel?

            Prepare your home and yard:

            • Use the August and September Brown and White Days to dispose of unwanted yard and garage items.
            • Recheck property readiness for a storm. Click here for information about getting your property secure. Click here to learn how to prepare your propane tank.
            • Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent flooding and pressure on awnings.
            • Obtain Emergency Preparedness Brochures. Click here for links to several options.

            Remember, be prepared; stay safe.

            Our Hurricane Hints can be accessed at any time on the Tidelines website. Use the Hurricane Hints dropdown menu.

            –Tidelines Editors

            Flooding on Seabrook Island Road

            Please use caution when driving on Seabrook Island Road in front of Seafields. That portion of the roadway is covered in water in all lanes. The bike and pedestrian pathway is completely flooded out in front of Seafields and cannot be used right now.

            -Submitted by the Town of Seabrook Island

            Weather Advisory-Tropical Storm Chantal

            Tropical Storm Chantal Weather Update #2

            The Town continues to monitor Tropical Storm Chantal along with Charleston County’s Emergency Management Department.

            Key Local Impacts:

            • Arrival: South Santee at 8:00 pm. Heaviest impacts: Saturday 10:00 pm– Sunday 8:00 am.
            • Beach Hazards: High rip current risk through Sunday. High surf advisory in effect, 4–6 ft breakers, beach erosion possible.
            • Winds: Sustained: 20–25 mph. Gusts: 30–45 mph, especially on beaches and bridges (Hwy 17 and I-526). Offshore gusts: Up to 59 knots.
            • Rainfall & Flooding: 1–3 inches expected, up to 4+ inches possible. Heaviest rain: late evening through early morning. Localized flooding possible, especially during 5:00 pm high tide today.
            • Tidal Flooding: Tide may reach 7.0–7.2 ft at 5:00 pm – near minor flood stage. 1–2 ft storm surge possible in coastal areas.
            • Tornado Risk: Low risk (5%) for waterspout-induced tornadoes in northern Charleston County late tonight into early Sunday.

            Please continue to get updates from your local meteorologists throughout the weekend.

            -Submitted by Town of Seabrook Island

            (Image credits: National Hurricane Center)

            Weather Advisory-Tropical Storm Watch In Effect

            The National Hurricane Center and the Charleston National Weather Service have issued the first advisory for Tropical Depression Three, which is expected to strengthen into a tropical storm as it approaches the South Carolina coast. 

            A Tropical Storm Watch is now in effect for our area, including Charleston, McClellanville, and Edisto Island. The Town is monitoring the storm development along with Charleston County’s Emergency Management Department.

            Key Local Impacts:

            • Timing: Tropical storm conditions are possible Saturday through Sunday morning. Landfall will likely be near Charleston on Sunday morning.
            • Winds: 10–20 mph, gusts up to 30 mph, with potential for stronger winds (39–57 mph). Officials advise you to secure outdoor items and complete your preparations now.
            • Enhanced risk of rip currents through the weekend.
            • A High Surf Advisory has been issued for the Charleston County coast for breakers of 4-6 feet. Beach erosion is possible.
            • Storm Surge: Up to two feet possible in low-lying coastal areas, mainly Saturday afternoon to evening. Minor flooding and beach erosion are likely.
            • Rainfall: Around one inch is expected with localized flooding in poor drainage areas.
            • Tornadoes: Not expected at this time, but isolated thunderstorms are possible.


            Please continue to get updates from your local meteorologists throughout the weekend.

            -Submitted by Town of Seabrook Island

            (Image credits: National Hurricane Center)