Aiken, August 26, 2025
News Summary
Aiken, South Carolina is currently facing severe weather alerts, including a thunderstorm warning and flash flood watch. Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities as strong winds and potential flooding threaten safety. The local school districts have adapted by instituting asynchronous learning days. Despite the weather challenges, the community commemorates significant humanitarian efforts with anniversary events. Alongside the storms, Aiken’s residents are advised to stay informed on weather updates and prioritize safety.
Aiken, South Carolina is currently under multiple severe weather alerts and is preparing for community events amidst the forecasted conditions. A severe thunderstorm alert and a flash flood watch are in effect, raising concerns for residents in the area.
The National Weather Service (NWS) Columbia SC issued a severe thunderstorm alert for Aiken and Lexington counties on August 21 at 9:44 p.m. Wind gusts are anticipated to reach up to 50 mph, potentially causing hazardous conditions. The storm was tracked moving southwest at 15 mph and was approximately 13 miles northeast of Aiken State Park. Areas affected include Wagener, Pelion, Perry, and portions of Interstate 20, specifically between mile markers 29 and 39. Residents are advised to stay indoors if they are outdoors during the storm.
In addition to the thunderstorm alert, a flash flood watch began at 8 a.m. on August 21 and is expected to last through late August 23. This watch covers Aiken and surrounding areas, including Bamberg, Barnwell, Orangeburg, Edgefield, McCormick, Burke, Columbia, Lincoln, McDuffie, and Richmond counties. Weather conditions are favorable for flash flooding due to forecasted rainfall, prompting residents in flood-prone areas to seek higher ground and avoid flooded roadways.
In response to the severe weather forecast, the Richmond County School System has announced a Powerup Asynchronous Learning Day for students on August 26, allowing them to complete assignments from home. Similarly, the Aiken County Public School District implemented e-learning on March 5 due to the forecast, with a two-hour delay for employees reporting to work. All buildings and offices will remain closed until 10 a.m. on that day. However, afterschool activities are planned as scheduled, with the exception of QuestZone programming.
While the weather poses challenges for the community, Aiken has also celebrated a milestone achievement. On August 23, Roxanne Turnipseed, a missionary from Aiken, led an event at Talatha Baptist Church to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Tranquilidad Foundation, which she founded to support orphans in Honduras. The event highlighted the community’s commitment to humanitarian efforts amid the ongoing weather situation.
Looking ahead, the weather forecast for Aiken on August 26 indicates a high of 84°F with partly cloudy skies and winds from the north-northeast at 10 to 15 mph, while the low is expected to be around 62°F with light and variable winds. Residents are encouraged to remain cautious and prepared as they navigate through the severe weather alerts and participate in community activities.
Safety Recommendations
- Stay indoors and avoid outdoor activities during severe storms.
- Seek higher ground in flood-prone areas.
- Avoid flooded roadways to ensure personal safety.
- Stay informed on weather updates from official sources.
Background on Aiken’s Community Events
Aiken has a strong tradition of community involvement, with events like Roxanne Turnipseed’s celebration providing a platform to support global humanitarian efforts. The community’s engagement demonstrates resilience and cooperation in the face of adverse weather conditions.
Weather Alert Summary
| Alert Type | Effective Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Severe Thunderstorm | August 21 | Wind gusts up to 50 mph |
| Flash Flood Watch | August 21 – August 23 | Conditions favorable for flash flooding |
| Richmond County School District | August 26 | Powerup Asynchronous Learning Day |
| Aiken County Public Schools | March 5 | Switch to e-learning due to severe weather |
FAQs
What should I do during a severe thunderstorm?
Stay indoors, avoid flooded roadways, and follow local weather updates.
What areas are under the flash flood watch?
The flash flood watch includes Aiken, Bamberg, Barnwell, Orangeburg, Edgefield, McCormick, Burke, Columbia, Lincoln, McDuffie, and Richmond counties.
How will schools operate during the storm?
Richmond County School System will have a Powerup Asynchronous Learning Day on August 26, and Aiken County Public Schools switched to e-learning due to severe weather.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Aiken County Enhances Hurricane Preparedness Efforts
Aiken road closures: Detours and lane changes for Atomic Road, I-20 and local streets
Over 30 Million Under Extreme Weather Alerts as Heat Wave Hits Western U.S.
Severe Storm Causes Fatalities and Damage in Aiken County
Aiken high school football schedule: Weekday Game Times, Bus Routes & Tailgates
Aiken public school updates: Fall 2025 calendar, wellness & transportation
Aiken high school football schedule: 2025 games, stadiums & gate times
Aiken festivals 2025: Weekend-by-Weekend Planner for Food & Music
Columbia County Road Closure and Town Hall Discussions
Aiken, SC Weather Alert: Scattered Thunderstorms and High Winds
Additional Resources
- Weather.com: Aiken, SC 10-Day Forecast
- The State: Weather News
- Post and Courier: Severe Flood Watch Issued in Aiken
- Wikipedia: Aiken, South Carolina
- Google Search: Aiken SC Weather

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.


