With the U.S. National Weather Service Charleston, SC reporting high levels of rainfall in the area with more expected this afternoon, motorists are asked to continue to use caution while driving and to avoid flooded roadways.
The Charleston Police Department opened the Public Safety Operations Center early this morning and continues to manage street closures and monitor weather conditions.
Barricades and high water vehicles have been prepositioned in West Ashley for deployment, if needed, and officers have checked in on residents of the low-lying areas of Church Creek.
The Charleston Fire Department’s Water Rescue Teams are on standby and ready to assist if needed.
All available Public Service crews are in the field working to clear drains and sidewalks to improve drainage. Pumps have also been secured and are stationed at Bennett and Gadsden Streets, King and Huger Streets, Allway and Flood Streets, and Allway and Norman Streets to facilitate floodwater recession.
Traffic and Transportation crews are actively troubleshooting traffic signals and making adjustments when necessary to alleviate congestion in affected areas of the city. It should be noted that crews cannot make repairs to disabled lights during periods of rainfall.
With the potential for heavy rain continuing into the evening, and in order to keep as much traffic off the roads during rush hour as possible, city of Charleston will release non-essential personnel at 4 p.m. today.
Any residents who have experienced structural flooding in their homes or businesses are asked to call the city of Charleston information line at 843-724-7311.
For the latest information on road closures due to flooding, follow @CharlestonPD on Twitter and visit gis.charleston-sc.gov/road-closures.