Coastal Colleton and Beaufort Counties, South Carolina, August 16, 2025
News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Coastal Colleton and Beaufort Counties in South Carolina, effective until 6:15 p.m. Residents can expect damaging winds of up to 50 mph and are advised to seek shelter indoors. Authorities stress the importance of staying updated on weather changes amidst lightning hazards. Key areas affected include Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, and Edisto Beach. Safety precautions such as avoiding windows and refraining from using electrical appliances are strongly recommended.
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Coastal Colleton and Beaufort Counties, South Carolina
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Coastal Colleton and Beaufort Counties in South Carolina, effective Friday until 6:15 p.m. This warning was updated at 5:24 p.m., forecasting strong thunderstorms that may bring damaging winds of up to 50 mph.
Doppler radar has indicated a significant line of thunderstorms stretching from the Burton area to near Edisto Beach, moving southward at 15 mph. Residents throughout the area can expect gusty winds that could knock down tree limbs and potentially displace unsecured objects.
Key areas affected by this weather warning include:
- Hilton Head Island
- Beaufort
- Port Royal
- Edisto Beach
- Clarendon
- Lady’s Island
- Parris Island
- Fripp Island
- Beaufort Marine Corps Air Station
- Burton
Residents are advised to remain updated on the evolving weather situation using NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, television, or local news sources. The prospect of lightning increases with the arrival of thunderstorms, with the NWS highlighting that the U.S. experiences about 25 million lightning strikes annually, predominantly in the summer months. On average, there are about 20 fatalities each year associated with lightning strikes, underlining the importance of storm preparedness.
Thunderstorm Safety Recommendations
Individuals are encouraged to seek indoor shelter during thunderstorms whenever possible. It is crucial to stay away from windows and avoid using electrical appliances during such weather events. Additionally, those traveling should be cautious of hydroplaning, which occurs when a vehicle slides on wet roads due to a buildup of water in front of its tires. Key factors that can contribute to hydroplaning include vehicle speed, water depth on the roads, and overall tire condition.
The NWS has provided further guidance on the dangers posed by damaging winds, which could harm local infrastructure including roofs, siding, and trees. Fortunately, tornado warnings that were previously in effect for Charleston, Colleton, and Beaufort Counties were lifted earlier in the day after 10 a.m.
Earlier priorities during this severe weather were placed on Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, and Colleton Counties, where the main threats included damaging winds and possible hail. Specific warnings were also issued for areas such as Hollywood, Ravanel, and Meggett.
What Residents Should Know
- Keep informed about weather updates using reliable sources.
- Seek indoor shelter during severe thunderstorms.
- Be cautious of possible hydroplaning while driving.
- Secure outdoor items to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
Conclusion
As severe weather conditions pose a threat to residents in Coastal Colleton and Beaufort Counties, they are urged to take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety and remain alert to changing weather patterns.
FAQ Section
What is the duration of the severe thunderstorm warning?
The severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 6:15 p.m. on Friday.
What areas are impacted by the severe thunderstorm warning?
The affected areas include Hilton Head Island, Beaufort, Port Royal, Edisto Beach, Clarendon, Lady’s Island, Parris Island, Fripp Island, Beaufort Marine Corps Air Station, and Burton.
What safety measures should be taken during a thunderstorm?
Residents should seek indoor shelter, avoid windows, and refrain from using electrical appliances. Drivers should be vigilant against hydroplaning.
What are the main threats posed by the storm?
The primary threats include damaging winds reaching up to 50 mph and lightning strikes.
Key Features of the Severe Thunderstorm
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Warning Duration | Until 6:15 p.m. on Friday |
| Wind Gusts | Up to 50 mph |
| Movement Speed | 15 mph southward |
| Affected Areas | Coastal Colleton and Beaufort Counties |
| Safety Precautions | Seek indoor shelter, stay informed, avoid driving if possible |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Tropical Storm Erin Approaches Charleston and Hilton Head
Gas Prices in South Carolina Experience Modest Increase
Hilton Head Island Prepares for Busy Beach Season with Safety Enhancements
Exploring South Carolina’s Vibrant College Towns
Severe Thunderstorms and EF1 Tornado Devastate Clarendon County, SC
Greenville County Braces for Strong Thunderstorms and Hail!
Additional Resources
- Herald Online
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Count On 2
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- ABC News 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Live 5 News
- Google News: Severe Weather
- WVGazette Mail
- Google Scholar: Severe Thunderstorm
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
