South Carolina’s Lowcountry Braces for Hurricane Helene

News Summary

As Hurricane Helene approaches Florida’s coast, South Carolina’s Lowcountry, including Beaufort and Hilton Head Island, prepares for the storm’s impact. With tropical storm-force winds expected and potential flooding from storm surges, residents are advised to stay alert. Reports of significant damage have begun to surface, along with power outages affecting thousands. While recovery efforts are underway, the community remains resilient in the face of this natural disaster.

South Carolina’s Lowcountry Faces the Wrath of Hurricane Helene

Hilton Head Island, SC – As Hurricane Helene barrels toward Florida’s Big Bend region, residents of South Carolina’s Lowcountry are gearing up for some serious weather. The Tropical Storm watch is officially underway, and things are looking a bit wild for locales like Beaufort, Bluffton, and the ever-popular Hilton Head Island.

What’s Coming Our Way?

Forecasts predict that tropical storm-force winds ranging from 39 to 57 mph will likely hit the area within the next 48 hours. The National Weather Service (NWS) is alerting everyone to expect downed trees, power outages, and roads that may become filled with debris.

And it doesn’t stop there. There’s a storm surge of about 1 to 3 feet on the horizon starting Wednesday, which could lead to localized flooding and certainly some moderate beach erosion. Rainfall predictions are hinting at as much as 3 inches in Beaufort County from 8 p.m. Wednesday through 8 p.m. Friday, so it might be smart to keep your umbrella close.

Dangerous Conditions Expected

For anyone planning to hit the coast, beware! High surf and treacherous rip currents are expected, with waves potentially reaching anywhere from 6 to 15 feet. There’s also a chance of seeing a few isolated tornadoes as the storm looms nearby.

As of Wednesday morning, Helene was spotted 500 miles south-southwest of Tampa, Florida, brought the power of winds clocked at 80 mph. It looks like Helene is in the mood to strengthen quickly over the eastern Gulf of Mexico and could very well become a major hurricane shortly. The NWS has made it clear that the storm’s effects could stretch beyond its predicted path.

Damage Reports Are Rolling In

Once the storm hit, reports began to trickle in about the damage it caused. There was significant structural damage from the tropical conditions, with devastation along the Henry Robinson Boardwalk in Port Royal. A dock along the May River in Bluffton saw damage as well, leading to some closures on May River Road due to downed trees.

Although South Carolina declared a major disaster following the storm, Beaufort County didn’t qualify for federal assistance as no severe damage was reported in the area. Unfortunately, the storm wasn’t without its repercussions—29 fatalities occurred across nine counties in the state, but luckily, Beaufort County reported no injuries or deaths.

Power and Water Woes

Power outages swept through South Carolina with over 675,000 customers left in the dark due to the storm. In Beaufort County, about 3,000 residents experienced outages, but there is good news: Dominion Energy anticipates they’ll have 95% of power restored by October 1 at 11 p.m.

Adding to the turmoil, the Beaufort Jasper Water and Sewer Authority is grappling with significant outages, with two-thirds of their pump stations reporting no power. Residents have been advised to limit water usage, so check those faucets!

Tornadoes Confirmed and Unusual Weather Events

In the wild aftermath of Hurricane Helene, three EF0 tornadoes were confirmed in Beaufort County. The storm’s first tornado touched down on Daufuskie Island, followed by two more incidents in Palmetto Bluff and near Dale, proving just how unpredictable nature can be.

Wind gusts peaked at an impressive 75 mph in Beaufort County, and rainfall varied from town to town, with Bluffton recording the highest at 5.44 inches, while some areas experienced less than 2 inches.

Recovery Efforts Begin

In light of the destruction, the Town of Bluffton is stepping up to help residents recover. They’re offering emergency permits for storm recovery without fees, making it easier for those affected to get things back on track. This emergency permitting process will last for 30 business days, with specific rules for properties in designated areas.

As residents keep an eye on the sky and prep for what’s next, one thing remains clear: the Lowcountry is resilient. We’ll continue, rain or shine, because that’s the spirit of this beautiful community!