Columbia, South Carolina, September 28, 2025

News Summary

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has declared a State of Emergency due to the looming threat of Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Depression Nine. Rainfall and potential flooding are expected across the state, with areas at risk including Aiken and the coast. Local emergency officials are preparing shelters and supplies as rainfall could reach up to six inches. The situation is compounded by historical devastation from previous storms. Residents are urged to stay informed as weather conditions evolve.

Columbia, South Carolina – On September 28, 2025, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster declared a State of Emergency as a precautionary measure in anticipation of severe weather expected early next week. This decision follows the threat posed by Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Depression Nine, which is projected to strengthen into Tropical Storm Imelda.

Hurricane Humberto, which intensified to a Category 3 hurricane as of the same day, is expected to undergo further strengthening. The declaration of a State of Emergency enables the activation of the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan, allowing local, state, and federal agencies to coordinate their efforts more effectively.

Rainfall is expected to commence between Monday night and Tuesday, with the National Weather Service (NWS) indicating that heavy rain and potential flooding will become the primary concerns for the region. Areas particularly at risk include Aiken, the coast of South Carolina, the Pee Dee area, and Columbia. Meteorologist Chris Rohrbach from the NWS noted that the ongoing interaction between Hurricane Humberto and Tropical Depression Nine makes wind assessments more complex.

Local emergency management officials are preparing for potential impacts by ensuring that equipment and supplies are on standby. South Aiken High School has been designated as a primary shelter for evacuations from coastal areas, while Silver Bluff High School will serve as a secondary shelter. In preparation for potential power outages, backup generators on fire repeater towers have been serviced and fueled.

Predictions indicate that rainfall amounts may reach up to six inches in South Carolina by Tuesday, with storm models suggesting significant winds and heavy rainfall due to both Tropical Depression Nine and Hurricane Humberto. The National Hurricane Center continues to monitor both systems closely and has issued advisories as conditions evolve.

Historical context adds weight to the situation, as the previous year saw severe devastation from Tropical Storm Helene, which resulted in significant destruction and loss of life in the region. Hurricane Humberto was initially categorized as a Category 1 hurricane with 90 mph winds when it was photographed on September 26, 2025. Furthermore, forecasts for Tropical Depression Nine predict that it may bring 10 to 12 inches of rain along the southern coast of North Carolina.

As of now, rain and rip currents are already impacting coastal areas in the Carolinas, with swells from these systems expected to reach the shores by Monday.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Key Features of Current Weather Threats

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Tragic Car Accident Claims Life in Aiken County
Man Identified in Fatal Aiken County Crash
Voddie Baucham Jr. Passes Away at 56
Severe Storms Cause Damage and Fatalities in CSRA Region
American Red Cross Assists Families Affected by Aiken Fire
Shooting Incident in Aiken, South Carolina
Investigation Underway Into the Death of Infant in Aiken, SC
Columbia Launches Regional Offices for Hurricane Recovery
Severe Storms Cause Fatalities and Damage Across the CSRA

Additional Resources

• WXII 12 News
• Post and Courier
• WRDW News
• Wikipedia: Natural Disasters
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hurricanes

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.