Beaufort County Braces for Tropical Storm Debby

Beaufort County Braces for Tropical Storm Debby

Hey there, Beaufort County! As we gear up for what some are calling “historic” rainfall this week due to Tropical Storm Debby, it’s time for us all to stay informed and prepared. With forecasts hinting at an astonishing 30 inches of rain, it’s crucial to know what to expect and how to stay safe.

Flood-Prone Areas to Watch

Let’s talk about some of the spots that typically see flooding when the rains hit hard. Knowing these locations could save you a lot of hassle later on. Here’s a rundown:

• U.S. 278/S.C. 170 Interchange: This junction is known for its flooding issues. Right now, nighttime construction is taking place to expand the on-ramp from Okatie Highway to Fording Island Road. If this area gets closed off due to flooding, consider taking Bluffton Parkway or the southern parts of S.C. 170 as alternate routes.
• Bluffton Parkway: Often affected by heavy rains, the intersection with Simmonsville Road is a spot to watch. If you’re traveling that way, you might want to take May River Road or U.S. 278 as detours.
• Alljoy Neighborhood: This low-lying community along the May River tends to flood easily—sometimes with just a few inches of rain! Residents have pointed out that clogged drainage ditches may be part of the problem, leading to water buildup after storms.
• Downtown Beaufort: Here in the historic Old Point neighborhood, the stormwater systems are a bit outdated and often struggle with the rising sea levels. The flooding can come on strong, especially with storms like Debby approaching.
• Hilton Head Island: Given its low-lying nature surrounded by water, Hilton Head is particularly vulnerable to flooding, especially in areas shaded red on local maps. You should keep an eye on neighborhoods like Sea Pines, Shelter Cove, and Long Cove during this storm.

Travel Warnings and Safety Tips

As the rain pours in and the winds pick up, officials are urging everyone to reconsider any unnecessary travel. Just remember, it only takes 12 inches of water to sweep away a small car and 18-24 inches to overcome larger vehicles! Plus, there can be hidden dangers lurking in floodwaters, such as electrical wires or debris, so it’s best to stay off the roads if you can.

As of 11 a.m. Monday, Beaufort County is officially under a flood watch and a storm surge warning, which are extremely important to heed. Storm surges, which occur when high winds push water levels above normal, can wreak havoc, especially if they coincide with high tide.

Stay Informed and Safe

In the days ahead, your safety should be the top priority. Stay tuned for updates from local authorities and keep an eye on flood alerts to ensure you and your loved ones are safe. If you live in any of the flood-prone areas mentioned above, make sure to plan ahead and have an emergency kit ready just in case.

Let’s hope for the best, Beaufort County, and support each other through this storm. Take care out there!