Beaufort County Prepares for Potential Impact from Hurricane Helene as Storm Approaches South Carolina

 

Beaufort County Braces for Hurricane Helene: What You Need to Know

In Beaufort County, residents are keeping an eye on Hurricane Helene as it makes its way towards South Carolina. The storm, which initially wreaked havoc in the Florida Panhandle, is causing a stir and urging locals to stay attentive to the weather. While we’re not expecting a direct hit, it’s essential to stay informed and prepared!

What’s Happening Right Now

As of the afternoon of September 27, 2024, we’re facing some stormy weather with a slight chance of showers, mainly cloudy skies, and winds gusting up to 30 mph. The high today is expected to be around 85°F, but the winds from the south-southwest could make it feel a little cooler. As night falls, temperatures will drop to a comfy 71°F.

What to Expect from Helene

Although Beaufort County is on the fringe of Helene’s impact, there’s still a 100 percent chance of precipitation, with some rainfall possibly reaching an inch or more. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for tropical storm conditions that could affect our local area. We should pay special attention to the potential for tornadoes, which are a significant risk through the evening.

It’s important to note that tornado warnings were issued just after 7 a.m. on September 26 for parts of southern Beaufort County. In fact, emergency crews reported downed trees and some minor damage, but thankfully no serious structural impact on Daufuskie Island. Those living in Bluffton experienced similar, with the National Weather Service confirming minor roof damage from the same incidents.

A Look at the Bright Side

While these storms can feel daunting, it’s reassuring to hear from local officials like Hilton Head’s emergency manager, Tom Dunn, and Mayor Alan Perry. They are reminding everyone that this storm is different than our last encounter with Tropical Storm Debby, where flooding was a greater threat. This time, Helene may pose tornado risks but is less likely to cause significant flooding in our area.

“This is a great reminder that every storm is a little bit different,” Perry shared, emphasizing how each weather event can change dramatically from the last.

School and Safety Updates

In terms of community schedules, the Beaufort County School District has decided that students will stay home on September 27. However, don’t expect to jump into your favorite cartoons just yet! It’s a remote learning day, and students will be expected to tackle their online work from home. Extracurricular activities remain planned for Friday, although that could change if the weather takes a turn.

Bluffton’s Town Manager, Stephen Steese, has indicated that the town is ready to respond if necessary but does not anticipate major disruptions. He encourages everyone to take tornado warnings seriously, which is wise advice as we prepare for the storm.

Final Thoughts

As we move through this stormy season, remember to stay safe! It’s always best to keep ahead of severe weather by having a plan in place. Don’t hesitate to check in on your neighbors and make sure everyone is prepared too. As we watch Helene move off toward the coastline, let’s hope for minimal impact and stay connected with reliable sources for updates.

Take care, Beaufort County! Together, we’ll weather this storm.