Charleston to enact curfew on the peninsula Monday night

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The City of Charleston will enact a curfew Monday night as Tropical Storm Debby lashes the area.

Forecasters anticipate 10-12 inches of rain falls between midnight and 10:00 a.m., Charleston Mayor William Cogswell said during a Monday afternoon press conference.

The curfew will begin at 11 p.m. and a decision on whether to lift the curfew or keep it in place will be made Tuesday morning. “If you need to get off the peninsula we urge you to do that now. If you live on the peninsula, please shelter in place.”

Heavy rain and flooding associated with the tropical storm will increase as Debby moves closer to the area, and could pose a threat for the next few days.

“The concerns are also that we are going to have tropical storm force winds, there are isolated tornadoes that are possible, so we urge everybody to stay inside and do not travel,” said Mayor Cogswell.

The city will stage emergency and high-water vehicles at all eight arteries in and out of the city for emergency purposes only.

Mayor Cogswell said he believes the city is prepared for the storm. “But again, let me stress, for your safety and the safety of emergency responders, please stay indoors. Do not go out. This is a lot of water coming our way and we need to take it very, very seriously.”

Two shelters are open in Charleston County for people who live in low-lying and flood-prone areas. A general population shelter can be found at Matilda Dunston Elementary School (1825 Remount Road) and a pet-friendly shelter of last resort is open at the Charleston County Sheriff’s Administration Building. Be sure to bring your supplies, food, and comfort items if you head to these shelters.