City prepares for Tropical Storm Colin

CHARLESTON, SC – The City of Charleston is preparing for Tropical Storm Colin, which is expected to bring high winds and rainfall to the Charleston area tonight. The storm, coupled with the predicted King Tide at 10:05 p.m., will likely cause flooding in low-lying areas.

City of Charleston Public Service Department employees have been checking and clearing drains in all parts of the City—West Ashley, James Island, Johns Island and the Peninsula—to ensure that drainage systems are operating effectively.

Sand bags are available for residents to pick up at Fire Station 19 located at 1195 Bees Ferry Road and the Public Service facility at 2150 Milford Street.

Free parking will be available in the Aquarium Garage and the City’s garage at 93 Queen Street beginning at 6 p.m. tonight for residents who need to move their vehicles out of flood prone areas. Cars need to be out of the garages by 12 noon, Tuesday, June 7 to avoid charges. Residents should pull a parking card on entering the garage. Upon leaving, residents can submit the card to the attendant and say that they were there for the flooding.

The City will have a partial activation of the Municipal Emergency Operations Center (MEOC) tonight to efficiently assess and manage the effects of the storm and King Tide. Representatives from Police, Fire, Public Service, Parks and others will staff the MEOC to monitor and respond to the conditions.

Residents should follow local media for the latest weather updates.

Mayor Tecklenburg said, “We are urging citizens to exercise extreme caution when traveling throughout the City tonightbecause of the expected winds, rainfall and high tide. Be aware of your surroundings, as there is the potential for fallen tree limbs, downed power lines and dangerous flooding. And as always, avoid any travel that isn’t absolutely necessary until the storm system has passed.”