Beaufort County Under Tornado Watch as Hurricane Helene Approaches

Beaufort County Under Tornado Watch as Hurricane Helene Approaches

Beaufort County is currently under a tornado watch as Hurricane Helene, now a Category 4 storm, approaches the area. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued this watch until 8 a.m. Friday, with strong wind gusts and potential tornado activity anticipated.

On Thursday, Beaufort County experienced four separate tornado warnings, starting with the first issuance at 7 a.m. as Helene began to make its way northeast toward Florida. The NWS has highlighted that the primary threats for the Lowcountry include damaging winds and tornadoes associated with the intensifying storm.

As of late Thursday night, Helene was situated approximately 120 miles west of Tampa, Florida, and was packing maximum sustained winds of 130 mph while moving north-northeast at a speed of 23 mph. The storm’s expansive wind field, measuring approximately 400 miles wide, increases the probability of significant weather impacts inland, even after landfall.

Threat Levels and Anticipated Conditions

Forecasts indicate wind gusts in Beaufort County could reach up to 60 mph by 3 a.m. Friday. Rainfall totals are expected to accumulate as much as 4 inches, adding additional flood risks to an area already grappling with damage assessments from previous storms, including Hurricane Debby.

Previously, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was reported 5 miles northeast of Wassaw Island at 8:42 p.m., and there have been indications that a tornado likely touched down in Beaufort County early Thursday. The NWS has warned that the tornado activity generated by Hurricane Helene could exceed the 8 confirmed tornadoes experienced during Hurricane Debby.

Importance of Preparedness and Safety Measures

The NWS has emphasized that nighttime tornadoes pose heightened risks, as many residents may not receive timely warnings. As such, residents are urged to stay alert and monitor updates throughout the night for the latest information on storm conditions.

Reports indicate tree damage and minor debris were already observed in Palmetto Bluff and Daufuskie Island, signifying the beginning of Helene’s impacts on the region. The NWS is encouraging affected residents to report real-time flooding and storm damage to facilitate a comprehensive understanding of the storm’s impact.

Background Context of Hurricane Helene

Hurricane Helene is not only one of the most powerful storms set to impact the region, but it is also part of a larger weather pattern affecting the Southeastern United States. Damage from prior storms, including Hurricane Debby, remains under assessment, and with Helene’s forecasted trajectory, officials anticipate widespread implications across the area.

The NWS continues to monitor Helene’s path and its potential to bring strong, damaging winds across the Southeast. Despite forecasts predicting that the storm may weaken after making landfall, the associated risk of severe weather, including tornadoes and heavy rainfall, remains a primary concern for Beaufort County and its residents.