Hurricane South Carolina Update: Charleston Weather Alerts, School Closings, and State of Emergency Details
South Carolina is bracing for severe tropical weather as Tropical Depression Nine moves closer to the Southeast U.S. coast. With forecasts pointing toward its rapid strengthening into Tropical Storm Imelda, state and local officials have declared emergencies, issued weather alerts, and prepared response measures to protect residents. Charleston, one of the most vulnerable coastal cities, is already taking precautionary steps amid warnings of heavy rainfall, flooding, and strong winds.
Hurricane Update: Tropical Depression Nine Threatens the Southeast
Meteorologists have confirmed that the disturbance once identified as Invest 94L has developed into Tropical Depression Nine. Forecasts indicate it could intensify into Tropical Storm Imelda, bringing with it dangerous weather patterns. Projections suggest rainfall of 6 to 12 inches in parts of South Carolina, with some areas at risk of even higher totals.
The system’s movement has been complicated by the proximity of Hurricane Humberto, which may slow its forward progress, leaving Charleston and other coastal regions exposed to prolonged rainfall, strong rip currents, and storm surge threats. Although direct landfall is uncertain, the state is preparing for widespread impacts.
South Carolina State of Emergency Declared
Governor Henry McMaster has signed Executive Order 2025-33, placing South Carolina under a state of emergency. This declaration enables emergency agencies to fully activate response plans and coordinate relief efforts with federal authorities.
The order allows:
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Faster deployment of emergency resources
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Access to FEMA reimbursement for disaster-related costs
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Enhanced coordination between local governments and state agencies
Governor McMaster highlighted the unpredictability of the storm’s track but warned that heavy rain, wind, and flooding are expected across the entire state.
Charleston Weather Alerts and Local Emergency Measures
The City of Charleston has declared a local state of emergency to prepare for the storm. City officials have deployed public works crews to clear storm drains, ditches, and intersections prone to flooding. Pumps and barricades are being positioned in vulnerable locations, and municipal staffing has been adjusted to respond rapidly to changing conditions.
Residents are being urged to take immediate precautions, including securing outdoor items, avoiding flood-prone streets, and monitoring official alerts. In addition, coastal warnings have been issued, with forecasts warning of possible storm surge, dangerous surf, and coastal erosion.
School Closings and Government Service Adjustments
State law gives the governor authority to order school closings and delays due to severe weather. While no official statewide shutdown has been announced yet, individual school districts are monitoring forecasts closely and will update parents through official channels.
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD) has activated its closing information portal to track real-time changes to both schools and government office operations. Municipal services in Charleston, such as garbage collection and public facility access, may also be modified depending on the storm’s impact.
Table: Expected Service Disruptions
| Service Area | Possible Changes Announced | Status Updates Provided By |
|---|---|---|
| Public Schools | Potential closures/delays | District websites & SCEMD |
| State Government Offices | Delays or remote work | SCEMD Portal |
| City of Charleston | Facility closures, modified garbage pickup | Charleston City Alerts |
Preparation Guidance for Residents
Authorities across South Carolina are urging residents to prepare now rather than wait for conditions to deteriorate. Charleston residents in particular face heightened flood risks due to low-lying geography and tidal influences.
Essential preparation steps include:
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Stocking a disaster supply kit with food, water, flashlights, medications, and batteries for at least 3 days
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Charging devices and arranging backup power in case of outages
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Checking and clearing household drainage systems and gutters
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Avoiding unnecessary travel and never driving through standing water
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Monitoring updates from SCEMD, local governments, and the National Weather Service
Charleston Flood Alerts and Storm Surge Risk
One of the most pressing threats facing Charleston is coastal flooding. Forecasts warn of life-threatening storm surge and tidal flooding, particularly in downtown and barrier island areas. The city is preparing to open municipal parking garages for residents to safeguard vehicles from rising waters.
With Charleston flood alerts in place, officials caution that even without a direct landfall, storm surge, wind-driven tides, and excessive rainfall could combine to create dangerous conditions throughout the Lowcountry.
Outlook for Tropical Storm Imelda and Regional Impacts
As Tropical Depression Nine strengthens into Tropical Storm Imelda, the next 24 to 48 hours will be crucial in determining its exact path and impact levels. Some models suggest the storm could stall offshore, while others show a potential South Carolina landfall. Either scenario would bring widespread flooding, strong winds, and disruptions to everyday life.
Emergency management officials are emphasizing continued vigilance. With multiple systems active in the Atlantic, including Tropical Depression Nine, Tropical Storm Imelda, and Hurricane Humberto, South Carolina remains on high alert for shifting conditions.
Residents across Charleston and beyond are being urged to stay prepared, follow official instructions, and expect updates as the situation evolves.
