Beaufort County Prepares for Rare Winter Storm with Closures

News Summary

Beaufort County is gearing up for an unusual winter storm, closing county offices early on January 21, 2025. Travelers are advised to check for potential ferry service interruptions, while the Beaufort School District shifts to remote learning. Emergency shelters are set to open for residents needing warmth during the freezing temperatures. Officials urge everyone to prepare for hazardous road conditions and to monitor local forecasts closely.

Beaufort County Braces for Rare Winter Storm with Closures and Emergency Shelters Opened

Beaufort County is on high alert as the region readies itself for a rare winter storm. The forecast has prompted a winter storm watch and a cold weather advisory to ensure everyone stays safe during the incoming chill. So, what does that mean for you? Let’s break it down.

County Offices and Services Adjusted

First things first, county offices are going to take an early exit. They are closing their doors at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, January 21, 2025, and will stay closed all day on Wednesday, January 22. When will they decide about Thursday? Keep an eye out for updates by 3 p.m. on Wednesday.

Don’t forget, county convenience centers are also closing early and won’t reopen until things settle down a bit. They’ll close at 2 p.m. on Tuesday and remain shut on Wednesday. Updates on Thursday operations will follow soon.

Travelers, Stay Smart!

If you’re planning to travel, there’s some important information for you too. The ferry service that runs between Daufuskie Island and the mainland may face interruptions. It’s best to check for the latest updates since the service will depend on the weather conditions at the captain’s discretion.

For those flying in or out of Hilton Head Island Airport or Beaufort Executive Airport, you’re in luck—operations are normal for now. However, keep your guard up and check with your airlines for any possible delays or cancellations. Download those airline apps to stay in the loop!

Weather Warnings and Precautions

8 p.m. Tuesday and early Wednesday morning. Be prepared for the possibility of up to 2 inches of snow and possibly more freezing rain than snow.

Conditions could get pretty gnarly out there, especially on bridges and overpasses, which may become slick and dangerous. If you absolutely must travel, exercise extreme caution. And remember, less is more—stay off the roads unless necessary!

Stay Warm and Safe

four Ps is also a good idea: people, pets, pipes, and plants. Make sure those outdoor pipes are insulated and consider letting faucets drip to prevent freezing.

Emergency Shelters Ready for Action

5 p.m. to 8 a.m. and Christ Lutheran Church will be ready for visitors from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. It’s a great option for those who may need a warm place to stay.

School Closures and Remote Learning

Prepare Ahead and Stay Informed

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Charleston Braces for Chilly Weekend Ahead
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Additional Resources

• Island Packet: Rare Winter Storm Watch
• Wikipedia: Winter Storm
• Myrtle Beach Online: Weather Updates
• Google Search: Winter Storm Beaufort County
• Bluffton Today: Winter Storm Warnings
• Google Scholar: Winter Weather Preparedness
• Savannah Business Journal: Beaufort County Closures
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Storm
• Live 5 News: Closures and Cancellations
• Google News: Winter Storm News

Author: HERE Beaufort