Town moves with Charleston County to OPCON TWO as 'historic' rainfall predicted
With tropical storm-force winds and rainfall of 20 inches or more now being forecast for the Charleston area between Monday and Saturday, the Town of James Island has moved with Charleston County to OPCON TWO, meaning that a disaster or emergency is likely to affect the area and emergency operations plans are being implemented. Town officials are continuing storm preparations and remain in close contact with County Emergency Management and other area partners.
Latest news: According to the National Weather Service, Debby's impacts are expected to begin reaching the area Monday morning, with rains and winds intensifying into Tuesday and continuing through at least Friday. NWS officials are cautioning citizens to expect "historic" levels of rain and flooding as the storm system stalls over the area mid-week.
Due to the forecast of extreme and potentially prolonged flooding, Charleston County is advising residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas to consider relocating for the duration of storm. Residents are also encouraged to check the storm drains near their homes and clear any obstructions ahead of the storm’s onset.
Mayor Brook Lyon said, "While there's always some uncertainty in the forecast, the Weather Service says we may be facing historic flooding this week – worse even than the Thousand Year Flood in 2015. That's why we're asking all our citizens to prepare for this storm and stay informed and safe throughout the event."
Sandbag distribution: Sand and bags will be available again tomorrow from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or as long as supplies last and conditions allow, at Town Hall for citizens to make their own sandbags.
Information Line: The Charleston County Community Information Line will be staffed from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. tomorrow to provide updates and answer questions regarding the storm:
English: (843) 746-3900
Spanish: (843) 746-3909
Emergency Management Updates: For area emergency updates, including shelter and transportation information, residents are encouraged to follow Charleston County Government on social media (Facebook, X/Twitter), download the 2024 Hurricane Guide, and sign up for the Citizen’s Alert System.
Latest weather: For the most accurate and up-to-date weather forecasts, residents should stay tuned to the National Hurricane Center and National Weather Service Charleston websites, as well as local media and SCEMD’s SC Emergency Manager app.