News Summary

Beaufort, South Carolina, is facing severe weather conditions as a cold front approaches the area, prompting multiple weather alerts including tornado watches. The Charleston area is under a tornado watch until 1 p.m., affecting several counties. A wind advisory is also active, with gusts expected to reach up to 50 mph, potentially causing isolated tornadoes. Local schools are dismissing students early for safety. Residents are advised to stay informed about the evolving weather situation.

Beaufort Faces Severe Weather Alerts with Tornado Watches Issued

Beaufort is under severe weather warnings as a cold front moves into South Carolina. Lightning strikes have been reported, prompting authorities to issue multiple alerts for the region.

Current Weather Alerts

• A tornado watch is in effect for the Charleston area until 1 p.m., impacting Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, and Dorchester counties.
• A significant area of South Carolina, from Columbia to Myrtle Beach, is covered by the tornado watch, with parts of North Carolina also included.
• A severe thunderstorm watch is active until 10 a.m. for Allendale, Hampton, and Jasper counties; it extends until 11 a.m. for Beaufort County.
• A wind advisory is in place for much of the Lowcountry until 6 p.m., with winds gusting up to 50 mph expected in Beaufort and Charleston.
• Isolated wind gusts over 70 mph are possible, raising the risk of brief, isolated tornadoes.
• Gale warnings are active offshore, with sustained winds exceeding 30 knots.
• A high surf advisory is issued for Charleston County, anticipating waves between 4 to 6 feet, with ocean waves expected to reach up to 12 feet.

Local Responses

In response to these weather alerts, Judy Whittington, principal of Chocowinity Primary School, confirmed that students will be dismissed early to ensure safety. School staff are conducting checks outside to protect against debris from the strong winds.

Community Reactions

Community members have expressed support for the early school closures as a proactive safety measure amid the severe weather.

Looking Ahead

Despite these disruptions, normal school schedules are expected to resume on Thursday. Fortunately, limited rainfall is predicted, reducing the potential for flooding and hail.

Residents are encouraged to stay updated and follow local alerts as this weather system progresses.

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Additional Resources

• Post and Courier
• Live 5 News
• ABC News 4
• Wikipedia: Tornado
• Grice Connect