Climate Risk Assessment: Charleston County, South Carolina

As a result of climate change, flood risk is expected to increase throughout Charleston County. The probability of the 100-year rainfall event, a useful indicator of flood risk, will likely triple by the mid 21st century. The trend shifts slightly back by the end of the century, although the probability of the 100-year rainfall event will still be more than double present day. Sea levels are also projected to rise 0.37 meters (1.21 ft) by 2050 and 0.75 meters (2.46 ft) by 2080. This will translate into greater flood depths and extent for Charleston County.

For more information about this analysis, or Woodwell’s other climate risk assessments, please contact us at policy@woodwellclimate.org. To learn more about Woodwell, please visit our website at woodwellclimate.org.