News Summary
Heavy rainfall is causing significant flooding concerns in Beaufort County, resulting in water accumulation on roads and power outages for about 2,000 customers. Authorities advise caution while traveling as conditions are expected to worsen with total rainfall predicted to reach up to 8 inches this week. The Beaufort County Emergency Operations Center is taking action by providing sandbags to assist residents. Nearby Jasper County is also facing a tropical storm watch, raising concerns about historic flooding. Residents are urged to prepare and stay informed as the storm progresses.
Beaufort County, SC – Heavy rain is currently causing significant flooding concerns across Beaufort County, with water accumulating on major roadways, prompting authorities to advise drivers to exercise caution. As of late Tuesday morning, approximately 2,000 customers are without power due to weather-related issues, including downed trees and power lines.
Specific roads with reported flooding include Castle Rock Road near SC 170, as well as the ramp to US 278 eastbound from SC 170. Due to the ongoing precipitation, conditions are expected to worsen as the week progresses, posing risks to safety and vehicular travel.
Meteorologists at the National Weather Service predict total rainfall amounts between 6 to 8 inches from May 8 to May 14, 2025, with significant rain already experienced in the area. Additional rainfall and scattered thunderstorms are anticipated throughout the day. Officials are advising that the greatest risk of flooding is expected from now through Tuesday, largely as a result of a low-pressure system in the Gulf of Mexico pushing tropical moisture into the region.
A cold front arriving today is further exacerbating the storm conditions, contributing to severe thunderstorms and heavy rainfall. Residents are urged to remain vigilant and prepared, as flooding conditions may threaten structures and create impassable escape routes. The National Weather Service has specifically noted that even small streams could transform into raging rivers, increasing the risk of dangerous circumstances.
In response to flooding risks, the Beaufort County Emergency Operations Center has partially activated. Sandbag filling stations have been established in Bluffton and Beaufort to assist residents in protecting their properties. Residents can receive up to ten sandbags each while supplies last. Emergency officials have also advised coastal residents to stay off the roads as Tropical Storm Debby makes its way through the area.
Nearby Jasper County is under a tropical storm watch and has issued warnings for potentially historic flooding. Experts estimate that Tropical Storm Debby could lead to rainfall totals of 10 to 20 inches throughout the week, considerably heightening the risk of flooding and coastal inundation for affected areas.
In addition to these measures, officials are urging residents to prepare for the storm by securing loose items, clearing gutters, and assembling emergency supplies to ensure safety as conditions deteriorate. Reports from various communities indicate issues related to downed lines and road obstructions; however, major interstates remain open at this time.
As weather conditions continue to evolve, it is essential for residents to stay informed, heed warnings from local authorities, and take necessary precautions to safeguard themselves, their families, and their properties. Flooding issues are a serious concern, and the community is encouraged to remain alert as the week progresses.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
North Carolina Faces Power Restoration Challenges Following Hurricane Helene
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Flooding Concerns in Beaufort County
- Wikipedia: Tropical Storms
- The State: Weather Updates
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Debby
- Post and Courier: Updates on Tropical Storm Debby
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Storms
- Bluffton Today: Jasper and Beaufort Under Watches
- Google News: Beaufort County Flooding
