AUGUST 6, 2024 – CHARLESTON, S.C. – As a result of the latest forecast, Mayor Cogswell has extended the city-wide curfew until tomorrow morning. As of 7:00am, we have received eight inches of rain and are expecting an additional three to six inches over the next 12 to 14 hours. This substantial rainfall, combined with wind gusts reaching up to 40 mph, is creating hazardous conditions for both our first responders and residents.
“Our emergency crews and city staff are working around the clock to keep our residents safe. We owe it to them to stay off of the roads,” said Mayor William Cogswell. “Due to people doing their part and staying home, we had no rescues overnight and no injuries to our personnel. Safety of our residents and staff is our top priority.”
“The curfew is not just about unnecessary restrictions but about maintaining the safety of the city and our citizens,” said Police Chief Chito Walker. “By stepping up and ensuring guidance, we aim to keep everyone safe. We know it works because the vast majority of the public has adhered to the warnings, and we need all of you to continue to make it work and to keep our city safe.”
“The curfew is crucial to keep people off the street to ensure their safety and the safety of our first responders,” said Fire Chief Dan Curia. “We know the curfew worked because our call volume dramatically decreased overnight. We are so thankful for the residents and the staff of the city for adhering to the guidance.”
Key Updates
Severe Flooding Expected through Thursday: According to the National Weather Association, rainfall will continue and potentially worsen through Thursday. This system has produced tornadoes in our city, and we remain under a tornado watch until 5:00pm today. Tropical storm force winds are expected to strengthen heading into Thursday.
Access to the Peninsula Remains Closed: Main thoroughfares leading into the peninsula remain closed until the curfew is lifted. The following thoroughfares are closed:
From Mount Pleasant:
- 17 and E Bay St
- 17 and Meeting St
- 17 and Crosstown
From 26:
- 26 and Mount Pleasant St.
- 26 and Rutledge Ave 26 and Crosstown
From West Ashley:
- Savannah Hwy and Lockwood
- Savannah Hwy and Crosstown
From James Island:
From North Charleston:
- Meeting Street Extension
- King Street Extension
Residents Urged to Stay Home: Officials strongly advise residents to stay home tonight and throughout tomorrow. Avoid traveling during heavy rainfall and do not drive around barricades or on flooded streets. Use this link for road closures, damage reports, garage locations, and more. Be aware that wet ground and soil conditions could cause trees to fall. Act promptly, as evacuating a flooded property once roads become impassable is not advisable.
Citizens Services Desk: The Citizens Services Desk will operate 24 hours a day starting today. Residents can call or email with non-emergency questions or requests at 843-724-7311 or citizenservices@charleston-sc.gov. Spanish-speaking services are available through Charleston County Government at 843-746-3909.
Stay Informed: Residents should stay informed through local media and follow the City of Charleston's official channels for the latest updates on the storm and its impact:
City officials will continue to provide regular updates from the National Weather Service regarding the storm’s progression and local impacts.