August 18, 2025

Beaufort, SC Faces Flash Flood Warning Following Severe Rainfall

Beaufort, SC, August 18, 2025

News Summary

Beaufort and Jasper County, SC are currently facing a flash flood warning due to heavy rainfall from thunderstorms, accumulating between 3 to 9 inches. Key roads have been closed, and residents are urged to seek higher ground as emergency services continue to assess flood conditions and provide shelter. Power outages have also been reported in several counties, heightening concerns for public safety as the storm progresses.

Beaufort, SC Faces Flash Flood Warning Following Severe Rainfall

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for parts of Beaufort and Jasper County, South Carolina, following a series of afternoon thunderstorms and heavy rain. Reports indicate that between 3 to 5 inches of rain have already fallen in the area, with an anticipated additional rainfall of 1 to 3 inches expected throughout the evening.

Due to severe flooding conditions, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has closed the ramp to U.S. 278 Eastbound from S.C. 170. Additionally, the intersection of S.C. 170 and Castlerock Road, located near Beaufort and Port Royal, is currently flooded and has been shut down. The times for reopening these intersections remain unclear.

The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warning to drivers in the area, particularly in Burton, advising caution as high water is present in multiple locations, including Broad River Boulevard and County Shed Road. Thunderstorms and rain showers are predicted to persist, although the flash flood warning is set to expire at 5:45 p.m. today.

Regions with poor drainage and low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable to flooding, with multiple reports emerging from Jasper County, where places such as Effingham and other localities are also under the flash flood warning. The flooding has led to civil emergency messages being issued in Jasper County, with various roads, including several I-95 ramps and over 30 local roads reported as flooded and impassable.

Emergency services have actively discouraged travel on these flooded roadways, underscoring the importance of not driving around barriers. Reports from Jasper County indicate rainfall totals between 6 to 9 inches, with some areas, particularly in the Bluffton region, experiencing up to 18 inches of rain.

Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to seek higher ground immediately and consider leaving their homes if instructed. For those in need, sandbags are available in Ridgeland and Hardeeville, limited to five bags per household. Additionally, guidance related to flooding safety and hydroplaning is being emphasized, reminding drivers to turn around when encountering flooded roads.

A shelter has been established for those fleeing the flooding at Ridgeland Secondary Academy, with specific requirements for pets, who are not permitted inside the main shelter area without necessary supplies. Furthermore, power outages caused by downed trees and power lines have been reported, affecting customers across Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties.

The flash flood warning was originally issued on August 16, 2025, at 4:29 PM and remains a significant public safety concern as storms continue.

Key Details:

Flash Flood Warning: Currently active for Beaufort and Jasper County.
Rainfall: 3–5 inches fallen, with an additional 1–3 inches expected.
Closures: U.S. 278 Eastbound ramp and S.C. 170 and Castlerock Road intersection closed.
Emergency measures in effect: Residents encouraged to seek higher ground and avoid flooded areas.
Shelters: Opened at Ridgeland Secondary Academy.
Power Outages: Reported across various counties due to storm damage.

FAQs About Flash Flood Warning

What is a flash flood warning?

A flash flood warning is issued by the National Weather Service when rapid flooding is imminent or occurring in a specific area due to intense rainfall or storm conditions.

What should I do if I encounter flooded roads?

If you come across flooded roads, it is crucial not to attempt to drive through the water or around barriers. It is always safer to find an alternate route.

Are shelters available for those affected by flooding?

Yes, a shelter has been established at Ridgeland Secondary Academy for individuals needing refuge from the flooding.

How much rainfall has been reported in the area?

Rainfall has varied between 3 to 9 inches in different parts of Beaufort and Jasper County, with some areas reporting as much as 18 inches.

What precautions should residents take during flash flood warnings?

Residents should seek higher ground, avoid driving on flooded roads, and follow any additional guidance provided by local emergency services.

Key Features of Flash Flood Warning

Feature	Description
Location	Beaufort and Jasper County, South Carolina
Issued By	National Weather Service
Rainfall Amounts	3-5 inches fallen, with another 1-3 inches expected
Major Roads Closed	U.S. 278 Eastbound ramp, S.C. 170 and Castlerock Road intersection
Shelters Opened	Ridgeland Secondary Academy
Power Outages	Reported in Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties