News Summary
Residents of Dillon, Florence, and Marion counties are urged to prepare for severe thunderstorms, including strong winds, hail, and lightning. The National Weather Service issued an alert lasting until 5 PM today. With wind gusts up to 50 mph and possible hail, safety precautions are advised. Areas affected include major routes and neighborhoods, and drivers are warned of potential hazards. Seek shelter if outside and stay informed on updates.
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Hits Dillon, Florence, and Marion Counties!
Hey there, folks in Dillon, Florence, and Marion counties! Buckle up and prepare for some wild weather! The National Weather Service (NWS) has just released an urgent update about a severe thunderstorm that’s making its presence felt in your neck of the woods, effective until 5 PM today.
What to Expect?
As you gear up for the storm, make sure you’re aware of what could be coming your way. We’re talking about strong thunderstorms with the potential for *pea-sized hail* at around **0.25 inches!** Plus, gusty winds could reach speeds of **up to 50 mph!** Yikes! If you planned on spending time outdoors, you might want to think again!
Radar Updates
As of 4:18 PM, Doppler radar has spotted a strong thunderstorm located over Sellers, about 9 miles northwest of Marion, moving at a steady pace eastward at **15 mph**. It’s time to keep an eye on the skies, folks! Gusty winds can knock down tree branches and toss around unsecured items, so if you have patio furniture outside, now’s the time to bring it in.
Impacts and Affected Areas
Here’s the scoop on which locations are impacted by the alert:
- Dillon
- Latta
- Sellers
- Floydale
- Fork
- Zion
- Blue Brick
- Smithboro
- Mars Bluff
- Oak Grove
- Francis Marion University
- Mcleod Medical Center
Additionally, stretches of Interstate 95 are included in the warning, particularly between mile markers **171 to 174** and **176 to 186**. If you have to drive, please take extra care!
Stay Safe and Seek Shelter!
Now, let’s talk safety. If you’re outdoors and threatening storms approach, it’s crucial to seek shelter inside a building. Don’t risk it! And if you happen to be on the road and encounter flooded areas, avoid driving through them at all costs. We know driving in these conditions can be pretty tricky, especially with the threat of hydroplaning lurking around. Just a quick tip: hydroplaning happens when your vehicle lose traction on wet roads due to water buildup.
Lightning – A No Joke Situation!
Remember that lightning can be a major threat during these storms. In fact, around **25 million lightning strikes** occur across the United States every year, resulting in approximately **20 fatalities annually.** The chances of getting struck by lightning rise significantly as the storm approaches and peaks when it’s directly overhead. So, if you see those dark clouds rolling in, make sure you’re inside! It’s not a time to take chances!
What to Do if Hydroplaning Occurs
Hydroplaning can be scary! Top contributors to this slippery situation often include:
- Wet roads
- Speeding
- Worn-out tires
If you find yourself hydroplaning, gently ease off the gas pedal, steer in the direction you want to go, and refrain from slamming on your brakes. Staying calm and maintaining control is vital during such moments!
Wrap Up
So there you have it, Dillon, Florence, and Marion counties – stay alert and stay safe! Keep an ear out for updates and remember, this storm will pass, and brighter skies are just around the corner.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Charleston Metro Area
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Berkeley and Dorchester County
High Surf Advisory Issued as Tropical Storm Chantal Approaches
Myrtle Beach Braces for Tropical Storm Chantal
Tropical Storms May Disrupt Independence Day Weekend in South Carolina
Rip Current Advisory Issued for Charleston County Beaches
Charleston Prepared as Tropical Depression Three Approaches
South Carolina Weather Forecast: Rain Predicted for Independence Day Weekend
Mixed Weather Expected This Fourth of July Weekend
Tragic Drownings at Beaufort County Beaches Raise Safety Concerns
Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Herald Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- WPDE
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety
- Fox 13 Memphis
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.
Mays Contracting
