Beaufort, October 3, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort and Jasper counties are preparing for a severe winter storm from January 21 to January 23. Government offices will close early, schools will shift to eLearning, and local services are adjusting hours. Residents are advised to avoid travel and prepare for cold weather conditions, with shelters opening to assist those in need.
Beaufort Prepares for Severe Winter Storm with Closures and Announcements
Beaufort and Jasper counties are bracing for a severe winter storm expected to hit the area from January 21 to January 23. Officials are implementing several closures and adjustments to local operations to ensure public safety ahead of the anticipated weather conditions.
All government offices will close early at 1 p.m. on January 21 and remain closed on January 22. This closure applies to Jasper County Offices as well, which also plan to close at 1 p.m. on January 21, with a tentative reopening on January 22 dependent on road conditions. Additionally, Hardeeville City Offices are set to close at 1 p.m. on January 21 and will stay closed on January 22.
Public safety officials in the area have advised residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. The US 278 Workshop and the Public Facilities and Safety Committee meeting planned for January 21 has been postponed.
In preparation for the storm, County Convenience Centers will close at 2 p.m. on January 21 and will not reopen until January 23. Non-emergency operations for the City of Beaufort will also be closing early at 1 p.m. on January 21, remaining closed on January 22.
Local schools are also taking precautionary measures. The Beaufort County School District will hold a half-day on January 21 and will shift to an eLearning and remote workday on January 22. Meanwhile, Jasper County School District will also have a half-day on January 21 with no students present on January 22 for professional development purposes.
Transportation and Airport Operations
Ferry service on Daufuskie Island will operate based on public safety and the discretion of the captain. Both Hilton Head Island Airport and Beaufort Executive Airport will continue normal operations as of January 21, although changes may occur as the storm progresses.
Community and Safety Measures
Local grocery stores and restaurants are adjusting their hours in anticipation of the storm. For instance, Chick-fil-A in Bluffton will close early at 5 p.m. on January 21, with other restaurants expected to follow suit. Similarly, all public libraries, including Bluffton Library, will either close early or remain closed on January 22.
In light of the approaching severe weather, Beaufort County Animal Services recommends that residents bring pets inside for safety purposes. Cold weather shelters will open at various locations within the community to assist those in need during the storm.
Safety Tips for Residents
Residents are encouraged to dress in layers, insulate pipes, and take care of vulnerable neighbors and pets throughout the cold weather period. Public safety officials are also strongly advising individuals to minimize travel unless it is absolutely necessary.
As preparations continue, community members are reminded to stay informed and to follow any updates from local authorities regarding the storm’s impact. Residents should take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this weather event.
Frequently Asked Questions
What dates will the severe winter storm impact Beaufort and Jasper counties?
The winter storm is expected to hit Beaufort and Jasper counties from January 21 to January 23.
Will government offices close due to the storm?
Yes, all government offices will close early at 1 p.m. on January 21 and remain closed on January 22.
How will transportation be affected during the storm?
Ferry service on Daufuskie Island will be based on public safety and captain’s discretion, while Hilton Head Island Airport and Beaufort Executive Airport are operating normally as of January 21.
What are some safety tips given for residents during the storm?
Residents are advised to dress in layers, insulate pipes, and take care of vulnerable neighbors and pets during the cold weather.
Are any cold weather shelters being opened?
Yes, cold weather shelters will open at various locations to assist those in need during the storm.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Winter Storm Dates | January 21 – January 23 |
| Early Office Closures | Government offices closing at 1 p.m. on January 21 and closed January 22 |
| Transportation Status | Ferry service based on safety; Airports operational as of January 21 |
| Safety Recommendations | Dress in layers, insulate pipes, care for pets |
| Cold Weather Shelters | Opening at various locations |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort County Residents Advised to Prepare for Hurricane Season
Beaufort and Jasper Counties Urge Hurricane Preparedness
Columbia Prepares for Winter Weather Advisory
Columbia Prepares for Major Winter Storm with Snowfall Expected
Additional Resources
- Your Island News: Lowcountry Life
- Wikipedia: Weather
- WTOC: Lowcountry Elementary School Recognized
- Google Search: Severe Winter Storm Preparation
- Island Packet: Local News
- Google Scholar: Winter Storm Preparation
- Your Island News: Sales Tax Projects
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Storm
- Eat Stay Play Beaufort: The Upper Crust
- Google News: Beaufort County News
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.
