Emergency crews working to clear storm damage in Bluffton, S.C.
Severe thunderstorms wreaked havoc in Bluffton, S.C., over the weekend, resulting in multiple structure fires, property damage, and hazardous conditions. Fire crews responded to emergency calls while storm reporting detailed hail and high winds, leaving residents grappling with the aftermath. Damage was seen across various neighborhoods, and safety measures were quickly implemented for affected areas. As Memorial Day weekend approaches, residents are urged to stay alert for further weather updates amid heightened rain forecasts.
Bluffton, S.C., was hit hard over the weekend as severe thunderstorms rolled through Beaufort County, causing not just a stir in the skies but also quite a bit of trouble on the ground. With fire crews racing against time, they responded to four emergency calls for structure fires on Friday alone, indicating the extent of the havoc!
Three homes sustained damages from fires triggered amidst the powerful storms, each suffering varying degrees of destruction. Thankfully, nobody was injured, which is a small comfort amidst the chaos. In fact, one home was saved from being a total loss when the homeowner was alerted to an attic fire by his trusty smoke alarm, proving yet again how important these devices can be!
Homes on fire were located in Sun City, Barton’s Run, and The Landings, with families grappling with the aftermath of a weather event that went beyond just rain. It was quite the tumultuous day for Bluffton residents.
The thunderstorms didn’t just stop with fires; they also left a trail of property damage in their wake. A park pavilion was damaged at DuBois Park, which led to a temporary closure. A water oak, big and seemingly out of place, crumbled under its own weight, creating a significant mess for the community. Safety measures were quickly put in place as the area was cordoned off, and thankfully, the playground reopened just a couple of days later!
As the storm lingered, reports were submitted to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) detailing a variety of damages. Nine preliminary storm reports showcased just how fierce the weather was. Among those reports were instances of hail—some strikingly large, measuring up to golf-ball size! Hunting Island State Park wasn’t spared either, receiving a shower of quarter-sized hail.
Along with hail came a plethora of fallen trees across Hilton Head Island, St. Helena Island, and two different roads in Beaufort. Wind speeds reached a shocking 68 mph at Beaufort’s Marine Corps Air Station, enough to make anyone’s hair stand on end! The storm’s ferocity even sparked a buzz on social media, with local videos showcasing near-tornado activity on Fripp Island, though meteorologists confirmed there were, thankfully, no tornadoes in the region.
With rain totals from Hilton Head Island measuring between 1.4 and 2.58 inches during the weekend, it looks like residents should brace themselves for more showers and thunderstorms as we head into Memorial Day weekend. Although no serious injuries were reported from the recent weather, the community has been put on alert to stay tuned for impending weather updates.
As summer approaches, let’s all keep our fingers crossed for clearer skies and calm winds! Safety first, Bluffton!
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