Beaufort County Prepares for Storm Drain Replacement Amid Storm Watch

News Summary

Beaufort County prepares for the replacement of a storm drainpipe beneath Lost Island Road while under a tropical storm watch for Tropical Storm Debby. Construction begins on March 19, 2025, causing temporary lane reductions. As heavy rain and severe weather are anticipated, residents are advised to prepare for potential flooding and travel delays. Governor Henry McMaster has declared a State of Emergency as up to 30 inches of rain is predicted. Stay updated and safe during this challenging period.

Beaufort County Gets Ready for Storm Drain Replacement Amid Tropical Storm Debby Watch

Residents of Beaufort County, it’s time to grab your umbrellas and buckle up! The Beaufort County Public Works Stormwater Infrastructure Division is gearing up to replace a storm drainpipe that runs beneath Lost Island Road. With construction set to kick off on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, and wrap up by Friday, March 21, 2025, keep an eye on the traffic patterns in your area. The work will reduce traffic to just one lane during working hours, but fear not, both lanes will be reopened overnight and after working hours!

Traffic Conditions and Cautions

Heads up, drivers! While the construction crew is doing their thing, you can expect some travel delays. It’s best to exercise caution when navigating through the construction zone. Beaufort County knows that every minute counts when you’re on the road, so make sure to plan accordingly. If you have questions or concerns during this construction period, reach out to the Beaufort County Public Works Department at 843-255-2800. They’re here to help!

Tropical Storm Debby on the Horizon

tropical storm watch because of the impending Tropical Storm Debby. With heavy rain forecasted for Hilton Head, Bluffton, and Beaufort, residents should prepare for as much as 20 inches of rain through Thursday!

This tropical storm watch isn’t just a gentle nudge; it indicates the potential for life-threatening inundation from rising water. A storm surge warning was issued to alert residents of the possibility of hazardous flooding conditions. This is not something to take lightly.

State of Emergency Declared

State of Emergency. The National Weather Service has flagged the rainfall potential as “historic,” warning of widespread severe flash flooding. Frank Strait, South Carolina’s severe weather liaison, has even described the rainfall prediction as “downright scary.”

What to Expect

10 to 20 inches, with localized amounts possibly reaching up to 30 inches. If that wasn’t enough, the NWS warns of potential impacts from moderate winds and storm surges, with 2 to 4 feet of storm surge inundation anticipated in certain areas.

High winds are expected to start hitting Beaufort County as soon as Monday morning, and they could whip up to 57 mph. Not to be overlooked, the threat of tornadoes primarily near the coastline adds another layer of concern for residents looking forward to the week ahead.

Preparation Tips from Local Officials

Tropical Storm Debby Updates

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• WSAV: Storm Drain Replacement to Cause Traffic Delays
• Wikipedia: Tropical Storm
• Island Packet: Weather News
• Google Search: Hurricane Preparation
• Bluffton Today: Yemassee/Beaufort County Sidewalk Project
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Storm
• Bluffton Today: Jasper County FEMA Grant for Stormwater Study
• Google News: Beaufort County Weather