Beaufort County, SC, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort County, SC, is experiencing a significant and unusual weather event with snowfall accumulations of 2 to 4 inches overnight. This marks only the second substantial snowfall in nearly seven years, leading to the closure of schools, airports, and government offices. Authorities are advising residents to refrain from traveling due to icy conditions. While the excitement of snow brings joy to locals, safety precautions are advised during this rare winter occurrence, highlighting the region’s infrequent snow events.
Beaufort County, SC is experiencing an unusual weather event as temperatures have dropped significantly, leading to snowfall accumulations between 2 to 4 inches overnight from January 21 to January 22, 2025. This rare snowfall is particularly noteworthy as it marks only the second significant snowfall in the county in nearly seven years, the last being in January 2018 when Hilton Head Island received 3-5 inches of snow.
The snowfall has prompted the closure of schools, government offices, and airports across Beaufort County. Local law enforcement has advised residents to avoid traveling due to treacherous icy conditions. Many roads are potentially dangerous because of black ice, and the Town of Hilton Head Island has cited a lack of snow removal equipment as the reason for their roads not being prepared for snow.
Despite the excitement surrounding the snowfall, the accumulation is somewhat unexpected due to prior weather predictions. According to experts, cold air has moved into South Carolina causing rainfall to decline, but the ground temperatures remain above freezing, which makes substantial snow accumulation less likely. Areas inland and northern regions may still experience flurries, but the overall conditions are not ideal for heavy snow formation. Frank Strait, severe weather liaison for the state’s department of natural resources, has noted that it is too dry for significant snow to fall.
Snow is rare in Beaufort County, with the annual chance of snowfall sitting at only 9%, as reported by the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR). Significant snow events in the past five decades include nearly 7 inches in 1989 and the more recent accumulation in 2018. In contrast, minor dustings occurred in 1985, 1986, 2010, and 2014, emphasizing the infrequency of substantial snow in this coastal region.
As the region adjusts to the white winter landscape, many locals are enjoying outdoor activities, with some experiencing their first snowfall. Residents have reported sledding on covered beaches, which are whimsical sights normally reserved for snow-prone areas. Additionally, safety advisories are in place due to the severe cold, which urges residents to dress warmly and take precautions to protect their plumbing, pets, and plants.
With temperatures expected to remain in the 30s, Beaufort County’s recent snowfall serves as an unusual reminder of winter, although hopes for a white Christmas this year remain just that—hopes. As locals reflect on the occasion, it remains to be seen whether further snow events will occur in the future, as such occurrences in this region are seldom.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the last significant snowfall in Beaufort County?
The last significant snowfall was in January 2018, where between 3 to 5 inches fell on Hilton Head Island.
How much snow has fallen during the recent snowfall event?
Between 2 to 4 inches of snow fell from January 21, 2025, to January 22, 2025.
Why is snow rare in Beaufort County?
Beaufort County has an annual snowfall chance of only 9%, and since 1973, it has experienced fewer than 10 snow events.
What safety precautions should residents take during this snowfall?
Residents are advised to avoid traveling due to icy conditions, dress warmly, and take care of plumbing, pets, and plants.
What areas in Beaufort County are experiencing flurries?
Flurries are possible in inland and northern areas of Beaufort County, while coastal temperatures remain above freezing.
Snowfall Events in Beaufort County (Past 50 Years)
| Year | Snowfall Amount (inches) | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1989 | ~7 | Notable historic snowfall event |
| 2018 | 3-5 | Significant snowfall on Hilton Head Island |
| 1985 | Dusting | Minor snowfall event |
| 1986 | Dusting | Minor snowfall event |
| 2010 | Dusting | Minor snowfall event |
| 2014 | Dusting | Minor snowfall event |
| 2025 | 2-4 | Current snowfall event |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Rain and Thunderstorms Expected in Hilton Head Area
Additional Resources
- AOL News: Beaufort County Weather Event
- Wikipedia: Snow
- Island Packet: Beaufort Weather Report
- Google Search: Beaufort County Weather
- Post and Courier: Beaufort Snow Coverage
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- Myrtle Beach Online: Weather Updates
- Google News: Snow Beaufort County
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.
