Folly Beach Enjoys Sunny Fall Day as Hurricane Milton Weakens and Passes

Folly Beach Braces for Fall Weather After Hurricane Milton Fizzles Out

CHARLESTON — Residents along the South Carolina coastline woke up Thursday morning to find themselves greeted by a bright sunny sky as Hurricane Milton passed to the southeast without making much of an impact. Thanks to a little luck and perhaps a change in direction, what many feared would be another devastating storm turned into a warm, fall day that felt perfect for outdoor activities.

With temperatures peaking at a comfortable 73°F and only a gentle breeze coming from the north-northeast at about 5 to 10 mph, people stepped outside to soak up the pleasant weather. You could hear laughter from families and friends taking advantage of the unexpectedly fine day along the beaches, parks, and marinas.

Surfers Make the Most of the Waves

Jordy Martin, a local surfer from James Island, was among those who couldn’t resist the chance to ride the waves at the washout at Folly Beach. “The conditions were a bit rough at first thanks to the winds, but nothing we can’t handle. It’s nice to be out here on such a beautiful day,” he exclaimed as he paddled out with a wide grin on his face. Meanwhile, other surfers followed suit, seizing the moment to enjoy the surf despite the lingering whispers of a storm that had passed.

Hurricane Milton’s Fizzle Out

Although forecasts had initially warned of potential high winds and flooding tides as Hurricane Milton approached, it became quickly apparent that South Carolina was not in nature’s crosshairs this time. Milton, which had caused havoc in Florida just before crossing into the Atlantic, turned significantly away, leaving Charleston and surrounding areas with only comfortable breezes and clear skies.

The evolution of the storm was closely monitored, and as the day wore on, it became evident that concerns were largely unfounded. Forecasters had predicted wind gusts of up to 40 mph, particularly around Hilton Head Airport and Charleston Harbor. Yet by midday, the most powerful gusts had already come and gone, allowing for a peaceful afternoon.

A Coastal Community Relieved

In Beaufort, the situation was similar. Rob Wolfe, an area boater accompanied by his dog Mojo, commented on how relieved he felt watching the storm pass without significant effect. “After Helene just two weeks ago, we were all on edge. But today feels like a gift,” he shared as he stood comfortably next to his boat. His concern with Milton contrasted sharply with the damage Helene had wrought, having unmoored eight boats, leaving some perched strangely among the marshlands.

The remnants of Hurricane Helene were still undeniably visible. One boat lay awkwardly wedged between palm trees, its twisted mast a reminder of what had happened before. “We learned our lessons from that storm,” Rob mentioned, gesturing towards the boats nearby, “but Milton just didn’t have the same intentions for us.”

A Community Prepared, But at Ease

While shops and businesses had taken precautions in case of severe weather, the general tone was one of harboring good spirits. Many local entrepreneurs, like those at the nearby Lowcountry Cider Company, admitted they didn’t feel the need to panic this time. They’d been actively cleaning up and preparing for guests without feeling overwhelmed by worry for Milton.

A woman walking her two labs near the Safe Harbor Beaufort Marina laughed when asked if she was worried about the storm. “Honestly, it feels like we’re just enjoying a nice fall day – whatever worry we had melted away with the sun!” she shared, emphasizing the delightful shift in the atmosphere.

Looking Ahead

As the remnants of Hurricane Milton continued to drift into the Atlantic Ocean, locals were left with a sense of relief and gratitude. The weather forecast shows that while some minor tidal flooding could occur in the days ahead, nothing in comparison to what was initially expected. Instead, South Carolina is lucky enough to have welcomed the fall with sunlit shores and the sound of laughter filling the air.

As residents make their way back to a normal routine, they’ll cherish this calm as a reminder of nature’s fickle ways and the joy of community resilience. For now, it’s all about enjoying the outdoors and appreciating the beauty of the season.