Central Savannah River Area, August 21, 2025
News Summary
A severe storm struck the Central Savannah River Area, leading to significant damage and power outages. The storm resulted in one fatality in Banks County, Georgia, and left thousands without electricity, while an EF1 tornado was confirmed in Aiken County. Recovery efforts are ongoing, with state officials urging residents to remain cautious as more severe weather is forecasted.
Augusta, GA – A severe storm hit the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) late Saturday night, resulting in widespread damage and significant power outages across the region. The storm, predicted by local meteorologists, prompted a FIRST ALERT for potential severe weather, which extended into Sunday and Monday. Tragically, one person died in Banks County, Georgia, when a tree fell on their vehicle, marking a somber start to what has been a challenging weather situation for residents.
The victim has been identified as Jason Keith Payne, age 56. In Aiken County, reports poured in about numerous downed trees blocking roads, particularly in the Rapids neighborhood off River Bluff Drive in North Augusta. A portion of a shed was also reported blown into a road in the same area. The storm’s intensity left approximately 4,000 Dominion Energy customers in Aiken County without power, while around 2,000 Georgia Power customers in Augusta also experienced electricity outages.
The unexpected aftermath of the storm included Waffle House employees in North Augusta showing visible signs of concern as they waited outside for power restoration, highlighting the storm’s impact on local businesses and the community. In addition, a FIRST ALERT remains in effect as the threat of severe weather continues with the Storm Prediction Center indicating a slight risk (2 out of 5) for severe thunderstorms in the region.
As the storm system continues to develop, residents are cautioned about damaging winds and large hail, which are the primary concerns for upcoming severe weather events. South Carolina similarly experienced severe weather beginning early Saturday and extending through Monday, fueled by an upper-level low pressure area that slowly moved across the mid-Mississippi Valley into the southeastern U.S. Significant rainfall and strong storms across Georgia and South Carolina caused various flooding issues, further complicating recovery efforts.
An EF1 tornado with peak winds at 90 mph was confirmed in Aiken County, South Carolina, on Monday morning, adding to the devastation that has covered both states. Columbia Metropolitan Airport reported 2.86 inches of rainfall on Monday alone, while certain areas in South Carolina accumulated between 7.00 to 10.00 inches over a 72-hour period. This heavy rain could alleviate drought conditions in South Carolina, where over 87% of the state has been affected.
In response to the weather crisis, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp expressed condolences for the storm victims, urging prayers for those impacted. He also issued a state of emergency for Georgia, which includes measures to prohibit price gouging and assist in mobilizing resources necessary for response and recovery efforts. Tornado warnings and watches were issued for parts of Richmond and Aiken counties on Sunday morning, extending warnings of severe thunderstorms in that area until 11 a.m.
Summary of Impacts
- Fatalities: 1 (Banks County, GA)
- Power Outages: 4,000 Dominion Energy customers (Aiken County), 2,000 Georgia Power customers (Augusta)
- Severe Weather Alerts: FIRST ALERT remains active; slight risk for severe thunderstorms continues
- Confirmed Tornado: EF1 tornado in Aiken County with 90 mph winds
- Rainfall: Up to 10 inches in some areas over 72 hours
Weather Forecast
Residents are advised to stay tuned for further weather updates as circumstances may evolve rapidly. Additional severe weather patterns are expected throughout the week, emphasizing the need for caution and preparedness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the severe weather in the CSRA region?
The severe weather was caused by an upper-level low pressure system moving across the mid-Mississippi Valley, bringing heavy rainfall and strong storms to Georgia and South Carolina.
How many people have experienced power outages?
Approximately 4,000 Dominion Energy customers in Aiken County and around 2,000 Georgia Power customers in Augusta experienced power outages due to the storm.
What precautions should residents take following the storm?
Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates, avoid flooded areas, and be cautious of downed trees and power lines. It is also important to prepare for potential further severe weather.
Key Features of the Storm
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Storm Date | Late Saturday night through Monday |
| Fatalities | 1 in Banks County, GA |
| Power Outages | 6,000 total customers (4,000 in Aiken, 2,000 in Augusta) |
| Rainfall | 7-10 inches in some areas |
| Tornado Rating | EF1 tornado confirmed in Aiken County |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online
- WRDW
- WLTX
- Fox Weather
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
- Augusta Chronicle
- WFXG
- Weather Bug
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- Google News: Severe Weather CSRA
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.
