Road closures likely as Hurricane Milton brings coastal flooding on Thursday

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Hurricane Milton is heading towards the east coast of Florida, and meteorologists predict that the worst is starting to subside. However, coastal flooding is still expected in the Lowcountry through Friday.

Storm Team 2 predicts that coastal concerns will persist until Friday, including long-period swell, onshore winds, strong rip currents, and expected coastal flooding at high tide.

A Coastal Flood Watch is in place through Friday afternoon. High Tide will be around 2 p.m. on Thursday and about 1 foot of standing water is expected. Storm Team 2 believes road closures and property flooding are likely.

“Just make sure you’re prepared – you might have to navigate some closed roadways,” said meteorologist Josh Marthers. “When that 8-foot level is hit at Charleston Harbor – which is what we’re predicting today. That even floods some property.”

Five property garages will open in Charleston on Thursday for residents to keep their vehicles safe during the threat of coastal flooding.

Storm Team 2 says sustained winds are expected to be between 20 and 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph. The wind speeds are expected to decrease from late morning through the mid-to-late afternoon hours, but tidal flooding will likely be in effect.