Timeline of the Storm
- Thursday, September 21, 1989
- 7 A.M.: Heavy rains and 40 mph winds begin pounding the lower counties of South Carolina.
9 P.M.: Hugo, upgraded to a Category IV storm, takes direct aim at Charleston.
10 P.M.: Charleston first experiences hurricane force winds.
- Friday, September 22, 1989
- 12:30 A.M.: The eye passes over Charleston; 135 mph winds, five foot tidal surge, torrential rain, severe flooding. Emergency power implemented, phone service dies, communication problems ensue.
2 A.M.: High tide along with the impact of the tidal surge causes massive flooding;
rainfall amounts between 5-10 inches, storm tides 12-17 feet above normal range; 100
mph winds in Berkely County, power outages by nightfall, windows pop, trees uprooted,
National Guard aids in road clearing, Charleston hospitals report no injury treated.
- The Eye
- 40 miles wide, 140 mile wind extension. As storm moves inland, speeds diminish.
