July 13, 2025

Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Hilton Head Island

News Summary

The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm alert for Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort, and surrounding areas until 5 p.m. Hazards include strong winds, frequent lightning, and the potential for flash flooding. Residents are urged to seek shelter and stay alert as the storm moves south at 5 mph. The alert highlights risks of damaging winds, hail, and hydroplaning on wet roads. Travelers should avoid flooded roadways. Downloading weather apps for real-time alerts is recommended.

Hilton Head Island, SC – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm alert affecting Inland Jasper, Coastal Jasper, and Beaufort County until 5 p.m. on Saturday. The updated alert was released at 4:09 p.m., informing residents of the potential for strong thunderstorms in the area.

Doppler radar has detected a strong thunderstorm over Hilton Head Island, moving south at approximately 5 mph. The storm poses several hazards, including gusty winds that could bring down tree limbs and move unsecured objects. Locations under the storm alert include Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Beaufort, Port Royal, Ridgeland, Bellinger Hill Area, Clarendon, Jasper, Hardeeville, and Rose Hill. The alert also covers a stretch of I-95 in South Carolina between mile markers 5 and 21.

In addition to gusty winds, the thunderstorm is generating frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, with strikes capable of occurring up to 10 miles from the storm’s center. Residents are urged to seek safe shelter inside a sturdy building or remain in a vehicle. Potential torrential rainfall may lead to flash flooding, prompting warnings for drivers to avoid flooded roadways.

As the severe thunderstorm alert remains in effect until 5 p.m., it is essential for residents and travelers to stay alert. Wind gusts may cause damage to roofs and siding, uproot trees, and result in power outages due to downed power lines. Additionally, hail may injure outdoor property and structures.

Approximately 25 million lightning strikes hit the U.S. each year, particularly during the summer, leading to around 20 fatalities annually. The risk of lightning strikes increases as a thunderstorm approaches, peaks when the storm is overhead, and diminishes as it moves away. Hydroplaning poses additional dangers during such weather events; this occurs when vehicles slide uncontrollably on wet roads. Factors like speed, tire condition, and water depth on the road surface contribute to hydroplaning incidents.

For safety during a thunderstorm, the NWS recommends staying in an interior room on the lowest floor of a strong building or seeking substantial cover if outdoors, in a mobile home, or inside a vehicle. Although some severe storms have already passed, particularly in Charleston, Berkeley, and Dorchester Counties where thunderstorm threats expired earlier in the day, isolated severe thunderstorms are still possible. A previous tornado warning for Charleston, Colleton, and Beaufort Counties also expired shortly after 10 a.m.

In summary, residents in affected areas should remain vigilant, adhere to safety recommendations, and be cautious of the various hazards associated with severe thunderstorms. Downloading weather apps for real-time alerts and safety information is strongly encouraged to keep updated on changing conditions.