Beaufort, South Carolina, August 17, 2025
News Summary
Beaufort and Jasper counties are under a flash flood warning due to significant rainfall totals reaching between 3 to 6 inches, with additional rainfall expected. Local authorities have reported multiple road closures and are advising residents to take necessary precautions, including avoiding flooded areas and seeking higher ground. Thunderstorms are anticipated to continue through the evening, raising concerns about potential flash flooding in vulnerable regions.
Beaufort, South Carolina Faces Flash Flood Warning Amid Heavy Rainfall
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flash flood warning for Beaufort and Jasper counties following a day of heavy rain and thunderstorms. This warning is set to remain in effect until 5:45 p.m. on August 16, 2025. With rainfall totals reaching between 3 to 6 inches and an additional 1 inch of rain expected, local authorities have cautioned residents and drivers to take necessary precautions.
The rain has caused significant disruptions, including the shutdown of the ramp to U.S. 278 Eastbound from S.C. 170 and the intersection of S.C. 170 and Castlerock Road, which are currently flooded. The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has reported these closures but has not provided an estimated time for reopening. Local law enforcement has also issued warnings for several other roadways, including Broad River Boulevard and County Shed Road, where high water levels have been observed.
As thunderstorms and rain showers are expected to continue through the evening, residents in areas prone to flooding are encouraged to remain vigilant. The NWS indicates that vulnerable areas include low-lying regions with poor drainage. These areas face the highest risk of flash flooding, leading to the potential inundation of small creeks and streams, urban spaces, highways, streets, and underpasses.
Authorities have been monitoring the situation closely. The counties of Beaufort, Port Royal, Jasper, Rincon, Hardeeville, Calawassie Island, Lemon Island, Rose Hill, Sun City, and Shell Point are highlighted as areas particularly affected by the warning.
Safety Recommendations for Residents
In response to the hazardous conditions, residents are advised to adhere to the safety tip of “turn around, don’t drown” when encountering flooded roads. Individuals living in flood-prone regions should seek higher ground and follow evacuation orders if they are issued. Other safety tips include:
- Locking homes before evacuating.
- Disconnecting utilities if time permits.
- Avoiding rooms with submerged electrical components.
- Staying clear of walking through floodwaters.
It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock a person off their feet, and 12 inches can carry away most vehicles. Drivers are warned about the dangers of hydroplaning, which occurs when vehicles lose traction on wet roads. The NWS cautions that vehicles were reported stalled near Highway 170 and Castle Rock Road at the time of the warning due to flooding.
Ongoing Weather Forecast
The NWS has monitored the heavy rainfall closely, warning that thunderstorms may exacerbate the situation throughout the evening. Local residents are encouraged to stay informed of the latest weather updates and advisories as conditions may change rapidly.
For the safety of all residents and travelers in the area, it is essential to remain cautious during this flash flood warning period.
FAQ
What areas are under the flash flood warning?
The flash flood warning is in effect for Beaufort and Jasper counties, including areas such as Beaufort, Port Royal, Jasper, Rincon, Hardeeville, Calawassie Island, Lemon Island, Rose Hill, Sun City, and Shell Point.
What safety precautions should residents take during the flash flood warning?
Residents should avoid flooded roads, seek higher ground, lock homes, disconnect utilities if possible, and stay away from areas prone to flooding. Following the advice to “turn around, don’t drown” is crucial.
When is the flash flood warning expected to end?
The flash flood warning is set to remain in effect until 5:45 p.m. on August 16, 2025.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Warning Issued | Flash flood warning for Beaufort and Jasper counties |
| Rainfall Totals | 3-6 inches with an additional 1 inch expected |
| Notable Closures | U.S. 278 Eastbound ramp and S.C. 170/Castlerock Road |
| Safety Advice | Turn around, don’t drown; evacuate if necessary |
| Expected Duration of Warning | Until 5:45 p.m. on August 16, 2025 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm and Flash Flood Alerts for Charleston, SC
Hurricane Erin Strengthens to Category 5 Storm
Severe Weather Causes Havoc in Jasper County, Mississippi
Hurricane Erin Intensifies Off Hilton Head Coast
Hilton Head Island Prepares for Busy Beach Season with Safety Enhancements
Severe Thunderstorms and EF1 Tornado Devastate Clarendon County, SC
Tropical Storm Erin Forms in the Atlantic, Threatens South Carolina
Tropical Storm Erin Takes Shape: South Carolina on Alert
Charleston to Revamp Flash Flood Warning Criteria for Safety
Flash Flood Warning Issued for Jasper County, Georgia
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Flash Flood Warning
- Wikipedia: Flash Flood
- The State: Flash Flood Advisory
- Google Search: Beaufort South Carolina Weather
- AOL: Beaufort County Heat Advisory
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather Research
- Herald Online: Weather News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Weather
- ABC News: Severe Weather Update
- Google News: Flash Flooding
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.
