News Summary
Severe thunderstorms and record-breaking rainfall are currently affecting Charleston, SC and surrounding areas in the Southeast U.S. The National Weather Service has issued thunderstorm warnings, forecasting strong winds up to 50 mph, heavy rainfall leading to flooding, and even potential tornadoes. As Charleston experiences its highest rainfall records, residents are urged to stay informed and take precautions against severe weather conditions.
Severe Thunderstorm and Flood Warnings Hit Southeast U.S. Amid Record-Breaking Rainfall
Charleston, SC, is currently under the weather spotlight as severe thunderstorms sweep through the Southeast U.S., bringing literal buckets of rain, strong winds, and a sprinkle of drama to the daily lives of residents. As if Mother Nature decided to shake things up, the National Weather Service issued a thunderstorm warning on Tuesday evening that continues to wreak havoc across the area.
Windy Conditions on the Horizon
The thunderstorm warning has been set to last until 10 p.m., particularly affecting areas like Inland Jasper. As the storm rolls in, residents can brace themselves for wind gusts that might reach a whopping 50 mph. Imagine tree limbs swaying and loose garden furniture catapulting across the lawn. It’s the kind of storm that could transform a calm evening into a wild, windy adventure!
According to the latest Doppler radar updates, a line of storms is moving northeast at about 20 mph. This means that places like Springfield, Rincon, Port Wentworth, Guyton, Newington, and more are gearing up for some action tonight, judging by the heavy clouds rolling in. Storms like these can lead to some serious safety hazards, so it’s best to keep an eye on the sky and secure any loose items outside.
Keep Your Ears Open
While the raindrops are falling, the National Weather Service recommends that residents stay tuned to the NOAA Weather Radio, TV, or local news for updates. Keeping informed is key as lightning storms are known to strike the U.S. around 25 million times a year, especially in the warmer months. As the storm approaches, the chance of lightning increases significantly—so think twice before heading outdoors during the peak of the storm!
Set New Records for Rainfall
In an unexpected twist, Charleston has become the star of record-breaking rainfall. The International Airport reported a staggering 1.99 inches of rain since midnight, setting a new record compared to the previous mark of 1.93 inches set back in 1952. Not far behind, downtown Charleston saw 2.06 inches fall, shattering its own May 11 record from 1899. That’s a lot of rain, folks!
On Sunday, the persistent downpour rendered roads nearly impassable due to flooding, a situation that’s likely to worsen with the ongoing threat of flash floods across Alabama, Florida, and South Carolina. Flood watches and warnings have been issued throughout the Southeast, indicating a Level 2 out of 4 flood threat. Forecasts are estimating over 4 inches of rain for some parts of Florida and southern Georgia. Stay away from flood-prone areas if you can!
The Storm System’s Next Moves
As we look towards the future with this storm, predictions suggest it will drift into the Tennessee Valley by Monday while leaving behind a trail of rain in the Carolinas and Virginia. Prepare for more rainfall totals between 3-5 inches across many regions, with the possibility of isolated areas in western North Carolina and Virginia seeing up to 7 inches. It sounds like an all-you-can-eat buffet of rain!
Severe Weather Risks on the Table
This storm isn’t just about soaking rains; there’s also a risk of severe weather. Isolated tornadoes may visit South Carolina and North Carolina between Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, with the risk peaking late into the night. If you’re in these areas, please take precautionary measures. Having a plan can make all the difference before the winds kick up and the rains start to pour.
In a nutshell, while the skies may be gray, staying informed and ready for whatever Mother Nature throws our way is the best way to weather the storm. Stay safe out there, Charleston!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Coastal South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued in South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Alert in South Carolina’s Inland Jasper and Hampton County
Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes Strike South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorms Hit Savannah, Causing Funnel Clouds and Flooding
Coastal Flood Advisory Issued for Charleston Area
Flood Advisory Issued for Beaufort and Jasper Counties
Discover Charming Small Towns in South Carolina for Your Summer Getaway
Severe Thunderstorms and Flooding Threaten South Carolina and Georgia
Severe Thunderstorms Forecasted for South Carolina
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Severe Thunderstorm and Flood Warnings Hit Southeast U.S.
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm
- Fox Weather: Flash Flood Threat in Southeast
- Google Search: Severe Weather In The Southeast
- WYFF4: South & North Carolina Tornadoes and Severe Weather Possible
- Google Scholar: Flash Floods
- Myrtle Beach Online: Severe Weather Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Live 5 News: Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued
- Google News: Flood Warnings Southeast
- Count on 2: Severe Storms Expected Across Charleston Metro
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort 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 RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. 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.
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