Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Charleston Area

Charleston, SC, September 21, 2025

News Summary

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for Charleston and surrounding areas, with wind gusts expected to reach up to 50 mph. Residents in affected areas such as Moncks Corner and Bonneau Beach are advised to seek shelter indoors as a strong thunderstorm approaches. The storm, moving south at 10 mph, poses risks of fallen tree limbs and dangerous lightning. Safety measures are being urged as hazardous conditions persist, causing power outages and property damage.

Charleston, SC – A Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) for Charleston and surrounding areas on Saturday at 5:26 p.m. The warning, specifically affecting Inland Berkeley, is in effect until 6 p.m. Residents are cautioned to prepare for wind gusts that could reach up to 50 mph.

According to Doppler radar, a strong thunderstorm has been tracked over Bonneau Beach, moving south at a speed of 10 mph. The NWS alerts indicate the possibility of gusty winds causing tree limbs to fall and unsecured objects to be blown around in affected locations including Moncks Corner, Saint Stephen, Bonneau, Bonneau Beach, Southern Lake Moultrie, Pinopolis, Northern Lake Moultrie, Old Santee Canal State Park, Cross, and Macbeth.

For those located near Lake Moultrie, it is strongly advised to exit the water and seek shelter indoors or in a vehicle. The risk of lightning is heightened near thunderstorms, with strikes potentially occurring up to 10 miles away from the storm’s center. Nationally, the U.S. sees approximately 25 million lightning strikes annually, resulting in around 20 fatalities each year, particularly during the summertime.

As thunderstorms approach, safety measures should be prioritized. Residents are urged to seek indoor shelter and remain informed through NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, television broadcasts, or local news outlets regarding updates on the storm’s development. Additionally, hydroplaning can occur on wet roads, making driving hazardous as vehicles may lose control due to water accumulation in front of tires.

Reports indicate that power lines were downed on Adams Street and crossed a home on Hancock Street in Charleston, causing disruptions in power supply. Prior to the current warning, severe thunderstorms passed through the Tri-County area between 4 and 4:30 p.m., causing damage such as fallen trees and uprooted trampolines. Earlier in the day, a separate severe thunderstorm warning had expired at 10:45 a.m., though additional strong storms were still anticipated afterward.

Though the primary threat from these storms is damaging winds, there is also the possibility of hail causing damage to outdoor items. Notably, a tornado warning that had affected Charleston, Colleton, and Beaufort Counties was lifted shortly after 10 a.m. The intensity of these storms even resulted in the suspension of play at the NW Arkansas Championship Pro-Am event, highlighting the severe weather conditions experienced throughout the region.

Key Weather Points:
– Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Inland Berkeley until 6 p.m.
– Wind gusts expected up to 50 mph.
– Thunderstorm movement tracked over Bonneau Beach.
– Various locations warned to take cover.
– High risk of lightning, driving hazards, and damaged property noted.

Safety Tips During Severe Thunderstorms:
– Seek indoor shelter immediately.
– Monitor local news for updates and warnings.
– Avoid being near water during storms due to lightning risk.
– Stay clear of downed power lines.

What to Expect:
Residents are urged to consider potential property damage and personal safety as severe thunderstorms continue to pose threats throughout Charleston and surrounding areas.

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Additional Resources

• 4029 News
• Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
• Live 5 News
• Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm Charleston
• ABC News 4
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
• Count on 2 News
• Google News: Thunderstorm Warnings Charleston

Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD

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