Oconee and Anderson County, August 19, 2025
News Summary
Residents of Oconee and Anderson County are advised to take precautions as a severe thunderstorm warning is in effect until 12:15 a.m. A storm currently located near Lake Hartwell is expected to bring wind gusts of up to 40 mph and localized flooding. Residents are urged to seek safe shelter indoors and stay alert for lightning risks as storms may continue over the weekend. Ensure vehicles are secured and avoid driving through flooded roadways.
Thunderstorm Warning Hits Oconee and Anderson County!
Big news for folks living in Oconee and Anderson County! A severe thunderstorm warning has just been issued by the National Weather Service. The clock started ticking at 11:27 p.m. on Monday, and this serious weather warning is set to last until 12:15 a.m. on Tuesday. So, buckle up because it looks like Mother Nature is gearing up to make quite the spectacle!
What’s Happening?
Radar has picked up a strong thunderstorm that’s currently located about 9 miles south of Clemson, right near that beautiful Lake Hartwell, and it’s moving southwest at approximately 10 mph. Hold onto your hats because wind gusts during this storm could hit speeds of up to 40 mph. You might see tree branches waving about, and be cautious as those pesky unsecured items could be airborne! Areas that could feel the brunt of this weather include Reed Creek, Lake Hartwell, Anderson Airport, Townville, Fair Play, Sadlers Creek State Park, and Sandy Springs.
Safety Precautions
Residents have been advised to seek safe shelter indoors and to avoid driving through any flooded roadways. Torrential downpours are expected, which could lead to some nasty localized flooding. If you find yourself near Lake Hartwell, it’s a good idea to get out of the water and head inside or to your vehicle.
Stay Aware of Lightning!
Now, let’s chat about lightning. This is no laughing matter—lightning is a significant threat tonight. Strikes can reach out for up to 10 miles from the storm. Just remember, if you hear thunder, you’re already within striking distance and you need to find safe shelter, pronto! Did you know that around 25 million lightning strikes happen across the U.S. each year? Unfortunately, they result in about 20 fatalities annually.
Be Mindful on the Roads!
When rain starts pouring, be extra careful on the roads. Hydroplaning is a risk as vehicles can slide out of control on wet roads. If the tires can’t clear the water fast enough, they can lose contact with the road, and that’s a dangerous situation! Plus, with temperatures spiking up to 101 degrees in Anderson, the heat adds an extra challenge.
What Else is in Store?
On top of the storm risk, there’s a Level 1 risk for severe storms including damaging winds, heavy rain, and flash flooding. While this storm should be short-lived, it’s just a piece of the weather puzzle. There are thunderstorms likely to pop up across various counties over the weekend, followed by a cool-down in temperatures. Isolated heavy thunderstorms are expected between 4 and 6 p.m. in the Upstate, so keep your umbrellas handy!
For August 1 and 2, get ready for partly cloudy skies but with a significant chance of those afternoon thunderstorms flying in. According to forecasts, Oconee and Anderson counties might see storm activity starting around 7 p.m. and the Greenville area around 8 p.m..
Stay Connected!
If you experience any storm impacts, it’s important to report them! Use social media or toll-free calls to help keep everyone informed.
FAQs
What should I do during a severe thunderstorm warning?
Seek shelter indoors and avoid driving through flooded roads. Stay away from windows and keep yourself safe from lightning.
How can I stay informed about the weather updates?
Follow local news updates or check weather apps on your phone for real-time alerts and information.
What are the risks of lightning during a thunderstorm?
Lightning can strike up to 10 miles from the storm, posing serious risks of injury or even fatalities if proper precautions are not taken.
What is hydroplaning and how can I avoid it?
Hydroplaning occurs when your tires lose contact with the road due to water. To avoid it, slow down during heavy rain and ensure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread.
Weather Alert Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Storm Type | Severe Thunderstorm |
| Wind Gusts | Up to 40 mph |
| Flood Risk | Localized flooding expected |
| Lightning Risk | Strikes possible within 10 miles |
| Temperature | Up to 101 degrees |
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Severe Thunderstorm and Flash Flood Alerts for Charleston, SC
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Hurricane Erin Strengthens to Category 5 Storm
Severe Thunderstorm Alerts Issued for York and Chester Counties
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Thunderstorm Warning
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm
- Greenville Online: Upstate Weather Update
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Preparation
- Independent Mail: Anderson County Warning
- Google Scholar: Weather Alerts
- Fox Carolina: First Alert Weather Day
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- WYFF4: Severe Weather Timing
- Google News: Thunderstorm Warnings
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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