News Summary
A flash flood warning has been announced for Beaufort County due to heavy rainfall and thunderstorms impacting the region. The National Weather Service has reported rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches, with an additional 1 to 3 inches expected. Residents, especially in vulnerable areas like Hilton Head Island and Calibogue Cay, are advised to take safety measures, relocate if necessary, and avoid flooded roads. Local authorities have also provided resources, including sandbags and shelter, as response teams work to address power outages caused by the storm.
Beaufort County, SC – A flash flood warning has been issued for Beaufort County, effective from Sunday at 4:38 a.m. until 6:45 a.m., as heavy rainfall continues to impact the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Charleston, SC has reported significant thunderstorms in the area, contributing to hazardous conditions.
So far, Doppler radar indicates that rainfall amounts have ranged between 2 to 4 inches, with an additional 1 to 3 inches expected through the weekend. Areas particularly affected by the warning include Hilton Head Island, Forest Beach, Lawton, Calibogue Cay, Sea Pines, and Harbortown. Residents in these locations are advised to remain vigilant as weather conditions may rapidly change.
The NWS emphasizes the importance of safety during this period of heavy rain, especially with the slogan “turn around, don’t drown.” Most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles, underscoring the critical danger posed by flooded roads. Residents living in low-lying or flood-prone areas are urged to relocate to higher ground, especially those camping or residing near water bodies.
Safety Measures and Precautions
Residents should adhere to several key safety recommendations during this weather event. Before evacuation, locking homes is advised, along with disconnecting utilities if there is sufficient time. Individuals should avoid basements where electrical outlets may be submerged and evacuate immediately if they notice sparks or buzzing sounds. Crucially, walking through floodwaters is strongly discouraged, as even 6 inches of swiftly moving water can knock a person off their feet. Additionally, a mere 12 inches of rushing water has the potential to sweep away most vehicles.
Motorists are cautioned against driving through any flooded roads, regardless of how shallow the water may seem. Hydroplaning is a serious concern when vehicles slide uncontrollably on wet roads caused by water accumulation in front of their tires. The primary causes of hydroplaning include excessive speed, worn tires, and standing water. Ensuring proper vehicle maintenance and driving at safe speeds are critical measures to mitigate this risk.
Continuing Hazard and Precipitation Forecast
Forecasts indicate the potential for continued heavy rainfall, with total accumulations expected to be between 4 to 6 inches over the weekend. Urban and low-lying areas are especially vulnerable to flooding issues, prompting updates to flood advisories that now encompass minor flood situations. Furthermore, thunderstorms are predicted to generate strong wind gusts of up to 60 mph, potentially compounding the hazardous conditions.
Reports already indicate that some residents in Jasper County have received rainfall amounts varying from 6 to 9 inches, highlighting the severity of the storm’s impact on the surrounding area. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has reported significant flooding affecting key routes, including Trask Parkway and Kinlock Road, among others.
Community Support and Resources
As the storm progresses, local authorities have made resources available for residents. Sandbags are accessible in Ridgeland and Hardeeville, with a limit of 5 bags per household provided by town services. A shelter has also been established for evacuees in Jasper County, located at the Ridgeland Secondary Academy of Excellence Gymnasium, offering refuge for those in need.
Power outages are being managed by response crews working diligently to address downed power lines, affecting customers in Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and utilize available community resources as they navigate the challenges posed by this severe weather event.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Thunderstorms and Crane Incident Disrupt Traffic
Beaufort County Braces for Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding
Beaufort County Unveils New Flood Alert System
Beaufort County Faces Extended Heat Advisory as Severe Weather Forecasted
Beaufort County Residents Advised to Prepare for Hurricane Season
Charleston Issues Coastal Flood Advisory as Tides Rise
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Charleston Area
Beaufort and Jasper Counties Urge Hurricane Preparedness
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Charleston Area
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Beaufort County Heat Advisory Extended
- Google Search: Beaufort County weather advisory
- The State: Flash Flood Warning for Beaufort County
- Wikipedia: Flash flood
- Island Packet: Local News on Weather Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- MSN: Heat Advisory and Flash Flooding in Beaufort County
- Google News: Beaufort County weather
- Bluffton Today: Jasper County Issues Civil Emergency
- Google Scholar: Flood emergency management

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.

