Edisto Island Tornado Rips Roof Off, Thrown 50 Yards

Two Tornadoes Confirmed in the Aftermath of Tropical Storm Debby

A severe weather system that accompanied Tropical Storm Debby resulted in the confirmation of two tornadoes in Moncks Corner and Edisto Island, South Carolina. The devastation caused by the tornadic activity proved insurmountable for some community members, especially on Edisto Island.

The first of these tornadoes occurred on Edisto Island, an event which lasted for approximately 10 minutes. It was subsequently rated as an EF-1, possessing peak wind speeds of 97 mph. Direct from the ocean, the tornado made its way onto the island via the junction of Highway 174 and Palmetto Boulevard.

Residents Left Assessing Unimagined Destruction

Among the fearful residents looking to survive the storm was Tatum McDonald, an inhabitant of Edisto Beach. “The wind was howling. I was pretty scared,” said McDonald. “The winds were crazy; I didn’t know what was going to happen.”

Homes and local businesses alike faced unparalleled damages due to the tornadoes’ force. Yet, the residence of one family in particular bore the brunt of the weather’s wrath. Wayne Williams, a homeowner on Fishing Creek Drive, expressed his dismay at the devastation, his house rendered unrecognizable and only pieces left, thrown at a distance of 50 yards.

Memories Remain Amidst Destruction

The most painful damages were, however, more personal for the Williams family. The rising water levels within their home spared nothing, dampening clothing, ruining valuables, and soaking irreplaceable personal items. Despite the material loss, the most distressful element of their predicament is the loss of a place that harbored numerous memories of familial growth and happiness.

“Both my granddaughters learned to crawl in that house,” revealed Williams. “The boys and my oldest granddaughter loved it down here as well.”

Determined not to let this disaster deter them, the Williams family have decided to rebuild their home which they fondly referred to as “The Marshmallow,” and are ready to create new memories.

Weather Services on High Alert

Meanwhile, weather services and rescue teams remain alert as seven tornadoes have so far been confirmed to have resulted from Tropical Storm Debby. As the storm makes landfall, rain and floods are beginning to make their presence felt along the coast, and authorities are continually updating safety and closure information for residents.

Author: HERE Myrtle Beach