Charleston Weather Radar
Charleston Live Weather
Charleston Live Weather Radar
Charleston Hourly Weather Forecast
Charleston 7-Day Weather Forecast
Charleston Weather Overview
Charleston sits on South Carolina's Lowcountry coast where the Ashley and Cooper rivers meet the Atlantic Ocean. The city's humid-subtropical climate delivers hot, humid summers with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and mild winters. Charleston weather radar tracks precipitation across this low-lying peninsula, just 3 feet above sea level on average — one of the lowest elevations of any major U.S. city.
Hurricanes represent the most extreme threat. Hurricane Hugo struck just north of Charleston on September 21, 1989, as a Category 4 storm producing 140 mph winds and a devastating 20.2-foot storm surge near McClellanville. Hurricane Matthew in October 2016 brought a 9.88-foot surge that flooded downtown streets. Hurricane Dorian in September 2019 forced mandatory evacuations with 80 to 95 mph winds. The June-through-November hurricane season requires consistent Charleston SC weather radar monitoring.
Flooding remains the most persistent daily hazard. Low elevation and tidal influences produce "sunny day flooding" during king tides even without rain. The October 2015 catastrophic flood dropped 20 to 27 inches over four days, causing over $12 billion in statewide damage. Annual precipitation averages 51.53 inches. Severe thunderstorms deliver damaging winds, torrential rain, and approximately 3 tornadoes per year across the Lowcountry. Real-time Charleston doppler weather radar helps residents track approaching storms before they arrive.
Charleston Weather Risks & Safety
Hurricane & Tropical Storm Risk
Tropical cyclones can affect Charleston when their tracks bring strong winds and heavy rain into the area. Seasonal timing and peak activity vary by ocean basin, so follow official tropical weather outlooks and local advisories. On the radar, you can track the storm's center, rain bands, and changes in precipitation as it approaches. Keep your emergency plan current and follow local guidance when a tropical storm or hurricane threatens Charleston.
Flooding & Flash Flood Risk
Flooding can develop quickly in Charleston when slow-moving thunderstorms produce intense rain. Low-lying areas and roads with poor drainage can become dangerous while rain is still falling. Check the radar to see where the heaviest rain is falling and which areas to avoid. The standing rule: turn around, don't drown. Never drive through flooded roads, even if they look shallow.
Severe Thunderstorm Risk
Severe thunderstorms roll through Charleston regularly, especially spring through early fall. Expect damaging winds above 58 mph, large hail, and dangerous lightning. The radar shows you each storm cell's position, movement, and intensity — so you can tell if one is headed your way. When a thunderstorm warning drops for Charleston, get indoors and away from windows until it passes.
How to Use Charleston Weather Radar
Check Current Conditions
Look at the weather status bar at the top of the Charleston radar page. It shows temperature, humidity, wind speed, and current conditions — useful for gauging whether afternoon sea breeze storms or coastal fog are developing across the Lowcountry.
Track Storms on the Radar Map
The interactive radar map shows precipitation and cloud cover moving across Charleston, North Charleston, and the surrounding coast. Hit play on the animation to see storm direction and speed, especially when tropical moisture is flowing in from the Atlantic.
Review the Hourly and 7-Day Forecast
Scroll to the hourly and 7-day forecast below the radar. Check for incoming thunderstorms, tropical systems, or flooding risk over the next few hours. Charleston's summer storms develop fast — the hourly view helps you plan around them.
Stay Ahead of Hurricane Season
During June through November, check back frequently when tropical systems are active in the Atlantic. The radar tracks rain bands and storm position in real time — critical for monitoring storm surge threats along the Ashley and Cooper rivers and Charleston Harbor.
Who Benefits from Charleston Weather Radar
Commuters & Drivers
Charleston commuters crossing the Ravenel Bridge, I-26, and US-17 face sudden afternoon downpours and coastal fog that reduce visibility to near zero. Check the radar before your drive — see where heavy rain and thunderstorms are hitting along your route through the Lowcountry.
Outdoor Enthusiasts
Beachgoers at Folly Beach and Sullivan's Island, runners along the Battery, and paddlers in Charleston Harbor — check the hourly forecast before heading out. Summer sea breeze storms develop fast along the coast, and the radar shows them 30 minutes before they reach you.
Event Planners & Families
Attending an event at North Charleston Coliseum, Joe Riley Waterfront Park, or Patriots Point? The 7-day forecast helps pick the best day. On event day, radar shows exactly when storms or tidal flooding will affect the Charleston peninsula.
Outdoor Workers
Construction crews at the Port of Charleston and across the growing metro — check the radar before scheduling outdoor work. Lowcountry thunderstorms bring lightning and flash flooding with little lead time, especially during summer afternoon storm season.