Flash flood warning for Lowcountry until early Tuesday triggered by thunderstorms

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On Monday at 9:23 p.m. the NWS Charleston SC released a flash flood warning in effect until Tuesday at 12:15 a.m. The warning is for Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties.

"At 9:23 p.m., Doppler radar indicated a large cluster of showers and thunderstorms with torrential rainfall moving southeast into the Charleston Metro Area. Much of this area received between 1 and 3 inches of earlier this evening. Another 1 to 3 inches of rain could fall, which combined with high tide, will likely produce areas of flash flooding, especially in parts of North Charleston and Downtown Charleston. Road closures are likely and water may enter buildings," comments the NWS. "Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas."

Locations impacted by the warning include North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Goose Creek, Hanahan, Downtown Charleston, I-26/I-526 Interchange, West Ashley, Daniel Island, James Island and Fort Sumter. This includes the following highways: I-26 between mile markers 206 and 221. I-526 between mile markers 11 and 31.

The NWS adds, "Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. High tide will inhibit runoff of heavy rain, flooding areas of poor drainage in Downtown Charleston. Areas most prone to flooding include the Market, Crosstown, East Bay Street and Morrison Drive."

This warning is in effect until Tuesday at 12:15 a.m.

Protect yourself during a flood with these tips from the NWS

For either residents or campers of flood-prone, low-lying areas, take immediate action and seek higher ground. Follow evacuation instructions without delay. If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances. Avoid entering basements or rooms where electrical outlets or cords are submerged in water. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate the area immediately. Refrain from entering water that may have electricity in it and avoid walking through floodwaters. Even 6 inches of moving water can pose a serious risk of knocking you off your feet. If you find yourself trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and contact emergency services, and dial 911.

During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the NWS.

What to do in the rain on the road?

• Turn on headlights - Even in daylight, using headlights can help improve visibility and let other drivers know where you are.
• While driving - Stick to the middle lanes and stay on elevated ground. Rainwater tends to accumulate at the road edges.
• Keep clear of puddles - Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control
• Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles - Trucks or buses can produce a water spray that hampers visibility.
• Avoid flooded areas - When encountering a flooded road, do a U-turn and head back. The strong currents from flash floods can pull drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also negatively affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.

What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle begins to slide uncontrollably on wet roads.

This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. The three main causes of hydroplaning are:

1. Vehicle speed - When a vehicle's speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
2. Water depth - The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn't matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
3. Tire tread depth - Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.

In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here's what to know:

• Ease off the accelerator - Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
• Turn into the skid - Turning into the skid can help the vehicle's tires realign to regain control.
• Make sure the tires reconnect with the road - During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
• Brake gently as needed - Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.

Source: The National Weather Service

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This story was originally published June 1, 2026 at 9:26 PM.