CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – Charleston city leaders are preparing for potential impacts from Hurricane Helene and began implementing its flood mitigation plan on Thursday morning. The storm is expected to strike near the Florida Big Bend region on Thursday night before moving north through Georgia. The size and strength of the storm will bring impacts to much of South Carolina through early Friday morning. The greatest impacts in the Charleston area would be Thursday afternoon through early Friday with a key period of isolated tornadoes, heavy rain, and gusty wind between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. and again overnight. City leaders also anticipate flooding due to rainfall and high tides. "In the city, flooding may occur from the 0.5-1.25 inches of rain expected today and its intersection with the 4:13 p.m. high tide of 7.3 feet. Also, expect potential flooding with 1-1.75 inches of rain on Friday, and its possible intersection with the 4:36 a.m. high tide of 7.1 feet," city leaders said. Tropical storm-force winds with frequent gusts between 40 mph and 60 mph are likely. Most areas will see up to 50 mph but those near the coast can expect up to 60 mph. The city’s stormwater teams deployed four temporary pumps in flood-prone areas to manage water levels, and Lake Dotterer water levels have been lowered to mitigate flood risks. Colonial Lake will be lowered as needed based on the forecast. Barricades have been pre-deployed near flood-prone intersections. Charleston city residents with non-emergency questions can call 843-724-7311 or email [email protected].