Severe Weather Strikes Lowcountry: Tornadoes Reported in Multiple Areas
Residents in the Lowcountry are facing the aftermath of intense storms, with powerful winds and at least three suspected tornadoes wreaking havoc late Monday night and into Tuesday morning.
Tornado Touchdown on Edisto Island
Eyewitness reports confirm that a tornado caused significant damage on Edisto Island late last night. The Colleton County Sheriff’s Office announced on social media shortly before 10 p.m. that a tornado had touched down, resulting in damage to homes and numerous downed utility poles.
Authorities have advised that Palmetto Boulevard will remain closed to assess the extent of the damage.
Community Updates from Colleton County
⚠️🌀🚨🌪️ A tornado has touched down on Edisto Beach. There are reports of property damage and several downed power poles. Palmetto Boulevard is impassable until damage has been evaluated. ⚠️🌀🚨 #chsnews #scnews #colletoncountyfire
— Colleton County Sheriff’s Office (@ccsocares) August 6, 2024
Damage Reported in Kiawah Island
In addition, a second suspected tornado caused tree damage on Kiawah Island, underscoring the widespread impact of the extreme weather conditions.
Monitoring in Moncks Corner
A third tornado, possibly, was reported in Moncks Corner just before 3 a.m. Tuesday. Meteorologist Chris Holtzman indicated that Doppler radar observed a debris field at around 2:55 a.m. near the Walmart located on Highway 52.
Weather Service Response
The National Weather Service plans to dispatch crews to delayed areas for damage assessments and tornado confirmations as the conditions allow.
Safety Instructions for Residents
Authorities have advised residents experiencing any flooding or storm damages to take photos, provided it is safe to do so, for reporting purposes. Images of heavy debris have been shared by the Isle of Palms Police as they continue to assess the damage.
The public is urged to avoid roads and remain in safe locations until the situation is evaluated. Tornado watches remain in effect for Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, Colleton, Beaufort, and Jasper counties until 7 a.m. Tuesday.
