A coastal flood advisory issued by the National Weather Service in Charleston, South Carolina, warns of up to one foot of inundation above ground level along shorelines and tidal waterways in Coastal Colleton and Charleston counties, globalincidenttracker.com reported. The advisory remains in effect until noon on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, with high tide peaking around 9:57 a.m. at Charleston.
High Tide Pressures Low-Lying Shorelines
The National Weather Service notes that water levels are expected to reach between 7.6 and 7.8 feet Mean Lower Low Water at Charleston. Saltwater inundation is anticipated one to two hours before and after the peak high tide cycle, creating immediate hazards for coastal properties and local infrastructure.
Rising water will make select roads impassable and trigger minor property flooding. Authorities urge residents and motorists in low-lying zones to allow extra travel time, avoid barricades, and steer clear of waters of unknown depth.
Preventing Hydroplaning and Vehicles Swept Away by Floodwaters
Heavy rainfall and coastal overflow compound road risks. As little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can sweep away most vehicles, while moving water just 6 inches deep can knock a person off their feet.
Drivers in wet conditions face the distinct threat of hydroplaning, which occurs when a wedge of water builds up faster than a vehicle's tires can displace it, lifting the vehicle onto a thin layer of water. The National Weather Service outlines key preventive measures for wet-weather driving:
- Turn on headlights during daylight hours to enhance visibility.
- Stay in middle lanes on elevated ground to avoid pooled water near road edges.
- Maintain a safe distance from large trucks and buses that generate visibility-reducing sprays.
- Avoid deep puddles and make a U-turn if encountering a flooded roadway.
If a vehicle begins to hydroplane, drivers should ease off the accelerator, gently turn into the skid until tires regain traction, and brake gently.
Escaping Dangerous Rip Currents at Coastal Areas
Beyond roadway hazards, turbulent coastal conditions elevate marine risks. Rip currents present a severe danger, capable of sweeping even proficient swimmers away from the shore.
Swimmers are advised to remain near lifeguards. Anyone caught in a rip current should relax, float, and avoid swimming directly against the current, instead swimming parallel to the shoreline or signaling for help if escape is impossible.
