September 27, 2025

Tropical Storm Debby Causes Severe Flooding in Charleston

Charleston, South Carolina, September 27, 2025

News Summary

Tropical Storm Debby made landfall in Charleston, South Carolina, leading to severe flooding and damage across the region. With rainfall exceeding a foot in areas like Beaufort, residents face significant impacts. Emergency preparations are made, and organizations step in to provide relief, as power outages affect thousands. The storm’s origin as a Category 1 hurricane raises concerns about intensified weather patterns linked to climate change.

Charleston, South Carolina – Tropical Storm Debby Causes Severe Flooding and Damage

Tropical Storm Debby made landfall in South Carolina early Thursday, bringing with it substantial concerns of flash flooding across the region. The storm made landfall near Bulls Bay, roughly 20 miles southeast of Charleston, packing maximum sustained winds of up to 50 mph. As flooding conditions worsened, South Carolina officials ramped up preparations for potential evacuations, although no orders for evacuations have been announced at this time.

Debby’s impact was felt across the state, where it dropped significant rainfall totals exceeding a foot in certain areas. Beaufort recorded 13.78 inches of rain, while Hardeeville experienced 12.45 inches, and Ridgeland saw 6.59 inches. The severity of the situation prompted Beaufort County to begin preparations for storm impacts, which included strategically staging equipment and staffing up in anticipation of rising water levels and potential damages.

Governor Henry McMaster highlighted concerns regarding the risk of flash flooding, damage assessments, and rising river levels during a briefing. Power outages were reported statewide, affecting approximately 5,015 customers. The highest number of outages occurred in Spartanburg County, which had about 2,188 customers without power, followed closely by York County with 1,803 outages.

Residents in southeastern North Carolina were also warned about the possibility of an additional 3 to 6 inches of rainfall, which could lead to total storm amounts reaching up to 15 inches in some areas. The National Weather Service has been closely monitoring the situation as Tropical Storm Debby continues to bring considerable rainfall and flooding risks to parts of the Carolinas, expected to last at least through Friday.

As local communities faced the brunt of the storm’s devastating effects, organizations like the Red Cross and Salvation Army stepped in to provide relief, mobilizing volunteers and supplies to assist affected residents, particularly in the Lowcountry. Despite prior preparations, many local residents described severe flooding impacts with unanticipated damages.

In the aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby, statewide emergency declarations were initiated to assist residents impacted by flooding and severe weather. Compounding the situation, records indicate that Tropical Storm Debby originated from a previously categorized Category 1 hurricane, which has raised alarms regarding more intense weather patterns likely associated with climate change.

As the storm’s effects linger, local authorities remain vigilant in assessing damage and ensuring public safety.

FAQ

What was the impact of Tropical Storm Debby in South Carolina?

Tropical Storm Debby made landfall in South Carolina early Thursday, causing severe flooding and damage across the region. The storm dumped significant rainfall, with totals exceeding a foot in some areas.

Where did Tropical Storm Debby make landfall?

The storm hit near Bulls Bay, located 20 miles southeast of Charleston, South Carolina.

How much rainfall was recorded in affected areas?

Beaufort received 13.78 inches, Hardeeville recorded 12.45 inches, and Ridgeland saw 6.59 inches of rain.

What preparations were made in South Carolina?

South Carolina officials began preparing for potential evacuations and staged equipment and staff strategically around the region.

What assistance is being provided to affected residents?

The Red Cross and Salvation Army are active in providing relief, including volunteers and supplies in the affected areas, particularly in the Lowcountry.

Chart: Key Impact Data of Tropical Storm Debby

Location	Rainfall (inches)	Power Outages (customers)
Beaufort	13.78	N/A
Hardeeville	12.45	N/A
Ridgeland	6.59	N/A
Spartanburg County	N/A	2,188
York County	N/A	1,803

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tropical Storm Humberto and AL94 Raise Concerns for South Carolina
Beaufort County Faces 911 Service Disruption
Beaufort County Launches AI-Powered Traffic Camera System
Beaufort County Braces for Historic Rainfall as Tropical Storm Debby Approaches
Beaufort County Enhances Hurricane Preparedness with AI Traffic Cameras
Loggerhead Turtle Nesting Season Results in Beaufort County
Beaufort County Community Warned of 911 Call Disruptions
Beaufort County Residents Experience Internet Service Interruptions
Bluffton Store Declared Safe After Evacuations
Severe Weather Alert in Charleston SC: Thunderstorms and Flooding

Additional Resources

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.

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.

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