News Summary
A severe thunderstorm alert has been issued for Southern Lancaster, Chesterfield, Kershaw, and Lee Counties by the National Weather Service. The alert is active until 7:15 PM, with wind gusts predicted to reach up to 50 mph and heavy rain potentially causing localized flooding. Residents are advised to seek shelter and secure outdoor items. The storm is currently moving southwest, impacting areas like Cheraw and Bishopville. Safety precautions against lightning and hydroplaning are highly recommended.
Thunderstorm Alert Hits Southern Lancaster, Chesterfield, Kershaw, and Lee Counties!
Hey there, folks in Southern Lancaster, Chesterfield, Kershaw, and Lee Counties! If you were planning to enjoy a leisurely Sunday evening, we’ve got something to talk about other than dinner plans.
It’s 6:16 PM on Sunday, and the National Weather Service (NWS) Columbia SC has issued a severe thunderstorm alert that is set to last until 7:15 PM. So, what does that mean for you? Well, it looks like storms aren’t just happening in the movies, folks!
What’s Happening?
Radar is showing some intense activity coming your way! The storm was spotted near the Carolina Sandhills Wildlife Refuge, about 17 miles west of Cheraw, and it’s moving southwest at approximately 20 mph. Buckle up: we are expecting wind gusts that could roar up to 50 mph! So if you’ve got any outdoor furniture or that Halloween decoration still hanging around, you might want to secure it or bring it inside—those winds could send them flying!
Areas Under the Gun
Those who need to keep an eye out include residents in:
- Cheraw
- Bishopville
- Pageland
- Kershaw
- Chesterfield
- Westville
- Northeastern Technical College
- Cassatt
- Cheraw Municipal Airport
- Carolina Sandhills Wildlife Refuge
- Mt Pisgah
- Mcbee
- Jefferson
- Ruby
- Patrick
- Bethune
- Mount Croghan
- Lucknow
- Chesterfield Ruby Middle School
- North Central High School
Taking Precautions
If you happen to be outside, please seek shelter! A sturdy building will do, or even your car—anything that can protect you from those frequent lightning strikes that accompany thunderstorms. Remember, lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from the storm itself, so don’t wait for the first zap to look for cover. In the U.S., there are approximately 25 million lightning strikes every year, and sadly, they lead to about 20 fatalities annually. Safety first!
Watch Out for Flooding and Hydroplaning!
Another thing to keep in mind: the storm is bringing some heavy rain that may lead to localized flooding. If you’re on the road, don’t even think about attempting to drive through flooded areas. It’s just not worth the risk. Hydroplaning can happen when your vehicle loses traction on those slick, wet roads. The top culprits for hydroplaning generally include:
– Speeding
– Worn tires
– Wet road conditions
So, let’s keep it slow and steady tonight if you have to venture out. Be extra cautious and keep both hands on the wheel!
Final Thoughts
As this storm blows through our lovely counties, let’s stay informed, stay safe, and keep those spirits high! Whether the weather’s bringing us exciting lightning shows or we’re just hunkering down indoors, stick together and make the best of it.
Remember—stay safe, Southern Lancaster, Chesterfield, Kershaw, and Lee Counties! We’ll get through this storm together!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings for South Carolina Residents
Beaufort County Faces Thunderstorm Warnings Until Late Afternoon
Charleston Braces for Severe Thunderstorms
Severe Thunderstorm Alerts Issued for Local Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings for Allendale County
Severe Flash Flooding Devastates Texas Hill Country
Charleston Issues Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Amid Storm Threats
Hilton Head Island Beach Renourishment Project Announced
Strong Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Abbeville County
Bamberg Braces for Thunderstorm: Caution Still Advised!
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Afternoon Thunderstorm Alert!
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- The State: Thunderstorm Risks in the Region
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety Tips
- ABC Columbia: Upcoming Storms in the Midlands
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorm Impacts
- WPDE: Storm Helene Downgraded, Tornado Threat Increasing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Island Packet: Storm Forecast Update!
- Google News: Thunderstorm Updates
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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