Those persistent northeast winds supplying us with beautiful weather on the land, are creating havoc over the water and on the beaches.  Higher than normal tides due to astronomical affects will combine with the higher than normal seas to produce the continues risk for significant beach erosion and coastal flooding.  The Coastal Flood Watch has been extended through Tuesday as tides are expected to increase.  Add battering waves with heights of 3-6 feet on top of those higher than normal tides, and we see the risk of significant beach erosion, especially on the northern ends on local islands.  Reports of sea water breaching the dunes were received yesterday along many area beaches, and I think we will see a repeat today and tomorrow.  Look for the entire beach to be submerged around high tide.

Downtown is always an area of concern during times of elevated tide levels.  It appears today, areas around Bee Street, Lockwood, Beaufain Street, Barre, Jackson and Wentworth Streets will have the best chance for flooding.  Also, Long Point Road near the Palmetto Islands County Park will likely be covered with water.  Look for some flooding issues on roadways near the waterway side of Sullivan’s Island and the Isle of Palms.

There is also a high risk of rip currents today due to the northeast winds and elevated surf.

We will keep you updated as conditions warrant…