Flash Flood Warning Issued for Beaufort and Jasper Counties

Beaufort County, August 17, 2025

News Summary

The National Weather Service has issued an urgent flash flood warning for Beaufort and Jasper counties due to heavy rainfall causing significant flooding. With 3 to 6 inches of rain already fallen, residents are advised to use extreme caution and follow safety protocols. Key areas affected include Beaufort, Port Royal, and Jasper. Residents should seek higher ground and avoid flooded roads to ensure their safety during this critical time.

Flash Flood Warning Issued for Beaufort and Jasper Counties

An urgent flash flood warning has been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for Beaufort and Jasper counties, effective until 5:45 p.m. on Saturday. The warning comes as heavy rainfall has caused significant flooding in the area, prompting concerns for residents and local law enforcement.

According to local law enforcement reports, vehicles have become stalled due to flooding near Highway 170 and Castle Rock Road. The region has experienced between 3 and 6 inches of rain, with an additional 1 inch expected mainly across Effingham and Jasper counties.

Flooding Risks

The NWS alerts that flash flooding is either ongoing or anticipated to begin shortly in various areas. The warning highlights that small creeks, streams, urban settings, highways, streets, underpasses, and any areas with inadequate drainage are likely to be affected by the flooding. Key locations impacted by this warning include:

• Beaufort
• Port Royal
• Jasper
• Rincon
• Hardeeville
• Calawassie Island
• Lemon Island
• Rose Hill
• Sun City
• Shell Point

Residents in these areas are urged to exercise extreme caution and follow safety protocols. The NWS recommends that individuals should “turn around, don’t drown” when encountering flooded roads, as most flood-related fatalities occur in vehicles.

Evacuation and Safety Guidelines

People living in flood-prone locations or camping in low-lying areas should seek higher ground immediately. In case evacuation is ordered, residents are advised to leave their homes right away, ensure their homes are locked, and, if time permits, disconnect utilities and appliances before departing.

It is essential for individuals to avoid any flooded basements or rooms where water covers electrical outlets or cords. If any electrical buzzing or sparks are heard, individuals should exit the premises immediately. Staying clear of floodwaters is crucial, as they may contain dangerous electrical currents, and as little as 6 inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet.

For those who find themselves trapped by moving water, moving to the highest possible ground and calling emergency services is advised. Residents are also reminded that driving through water, regardless of how shallow it may appear, is unsafe; just 12 inches of fast-flowing water can sweep most vehicles away.

Hydroplaning Concerns

Additionally, the risk of hydroplaning increases during heavy rain, which occurs when a vehicle loses traction while driving on wet roads due to water accumulation in front of the tires. Preventative measures while driving during rainy conditions should be adhered to, including reducing speed and avoiding abrupt maneuvers.

Conclusion

The flash flood warning highlights the serious nature of the current weather conditions affecting Beaufort and Jasper counties. It is vital for residents to stay informed and heed the instructions of local authorities to ensure their safety during this critical time.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Severe Weather Alert in Charleston SC: Thunderstorms and Flooding
HELP of Beaufort Opens New Facility in Port Royal
Multiple Crashes Raise Safety Concerns in Beaufort County
Flood Advisory Canceled for Beaufort and Jasper Counties
Beaufort County Prepares for Hurricane Helene and Flooding
Severe Thunderstorm and Flash Flood Warnings in Beaufort County
The Devastating Impact of the Sea Island Hurricane
Beaufort County Faces Increased Flooding Risks Amid Funding Cuts
Beaufort County Traffic Deaths Decline
Beaufort County Braces for Heavy Rain and Flash Flooding

Additional Resources

• National Weather Service
• Wikipedia: Flash Flood
• Federal Emergency Management Agency
• Google Search: Flash Flood Safety
• AccuWeather
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
• American Red Cross: Flood Safety
• Google News: Flash Flood Warning

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.