Beaufort, SC, August 4, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort and Jasper counties are facing an updated flood advisory due to heavy rainfall from Tropical Storm Debby. The National Weather Service warns of potential minor flooding in low-lying areas with reports indicating rainfall of up to 11 inches. Residents are urged to exercise caution, avoid floodwaters, and prepare for possible evacuation. Local authorities are providing sandbags and opening shelters for those in need as conditions worsen.
Beaufort, SC – An updated flood advisory has been issued for Beaufort and Jasper counties as the region continues to grapple with the effects of Tropical Storm Debby. The National Weather Service (NWS) Charleston SC released this advisory at 2:08 a.m. on Monday, warning residents of potential flooding due to excessive rainfall.
The advisory is effective until 4:15 a.m. and anticipates minor flooding particularly in low-lying areas and regions with poor drainage systems. Reports from residents detail rainfall amounts reaching as high as 9 inches in some locations in Jasper County and up to 11 inches in Beaufort County by Tuesday afternoon. With this level of precipitation, water over roadways, overflowing drainage, and ponding in urban areas are either currently occurring or are expected soon.
Local authorities are urging residents to exercise caution, particularly at night, when recognizing flood dangers can be more difficult. Those living in flood-prone areas or camping in low-lying locations are advised to seek higher ground immediately in case conditions worsen rapidly.
In the event that evacuation becomes necessary, officials recommend acting without delay, ensuring that homes are securely locked before leaving. If time permits, individuals are also advised to disconnect utilities and appliances. Residents are cautioned against entering basements or rooms with submerged electrical outlets or cords. The NWS recommends immediate evacuation if sounds such as sparks, buzzing, or popping are heard.
The dangers of floodwaters are significant; even moving water as shallow as 6 inches can knock a person off their feet. Residents are warned to avoid walking through floodwaters, as they can pose risks due to electric currents and other hazards. If individuals find themselves trapped by moving water, they should move to the highest possible point and contact emergency services by calling 911.
Driving during heavy rain poses its own risks. The NWS advises against driving through any standing water, regardless of its apparent depth. Just 12 inches of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, leading to hydroplaning, where a vehicle begins to slide uncontrollably on wet roads.
Tropical Storm Debby, reported to be located about 15 miles from Savannah, GA and moving east-northeast at 6 mph, is known to have caused flooding and downed trees, contributing to hazardous road conditions in Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties as of Tuesday morning. An additional Coastal Flood Advisory was issued at 5:24 p.m. Wednesday, effective until 11 p.m., indicating expected saltwater inundation along shorelines and tidal waterways.
Residents are urged to take necessary precautions to protect their property from flooding. Reports indicate numerous roads in Jasper County are flooded, and residents are advised to avoid unnecessary travel to allow first responders the flexibility to respond effectively. Sandbags and sand are available for pickup in Hardeeville and Ridgeland for those wishing to protect their homes.
Citizens are reminded to avoid downed power lines and report any flooding on roads to local emergency services. A shelter has been opened in Jasper County for residents needing refuge from the storm.
FAQ
- What areas are affected by the flood advisory? Beaufort and Jasper counties are currently under a flood advisory.
- What type of flooding is expected? Minor flooding, especially in low-lying and poor drainage areas, is anticipated due to excessive rainfall.
- What precautions should residents take? Residents should seek higher ground, avoid entering flooded basements, and stay away from driving or walking through floodwaters.
- How can residents protect their property? Sandbags and sand are available in Hardeeville and Ridgeland for residents looking to safeguard their homes from flooding.
- Where can residents find shelter? A shelter has been opened in Jasper County for those needing refuge from the storm.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Thunderstorm Alerts Issued for Edgefield and Aiken Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Charleston, SC
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings for South Carolina Residents
Charleston Braces for Severe Thunderstorms
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings for Allendale County
Charleston Issues Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Amid Storm Threats
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued in South Carolina
Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online: Flood Advisory for Beaufort and Jasper Counties
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Island Packet: Flooding News
- Google Search: Beaufort SC flooding
- Bluffton Today: Jasper County Civil Emergency
- Google Scholar: Flooding Impact
- Post and Courier: Helene Power Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flooding Precautions
- Myrtle Beach Online: Weather Alerts
- Google News: Jasper County Flood
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.
