News Summary
Residents of Oconee and Pickens Mountains should brace for severe thunderstorms tonight, with winds reaching 40 mph and the possibility of pea-sized hail. The National Weather Service has issued a warning until 10:30 p.m., advising locals to secure outdoor items and seek shelter indoors to ensure safety. As conditions worsen, individuals are reminded to be cautious of lightning and hydroplaning when driving. With stormy weather upon us, it’s crucial to stay indoors and ride out the tempest safely.
Weather Alert: Oconee and Pickens Mountains Brace for Severe Thunderstorms Tonight
As the clock strikes close to nightfall in the charming region of Oconee and Pickens Mountains, residents should be on high alert. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued until 10:30 p.m. for these breathtaking areas, promising to bring about some *intense weather*. With the local forecast glowing red, it’s time to tuck in and prepare for some stormy surprises.
What to Expect from the Storm
The National Weather Service (NWS) Greenville-Spartanburg office updated their report at 9:58 p.m., indicating that strong thunderstorms hug the Oconee Mountains, Pickens Mountains, and the surrounding Greater Pickens areas. It seems that nature has a penchant for drama, and tonight’s show might involve pea-sized hail and mighty wind gusts reaching up to 40 mph. Yes, you read that right—*pea-sized hail*! These little ice stones can cause some minor damage to outdoor items, so remember to secure those lawn decorations.
As of the latest radar updates, the storm was spotted a mere 17 miles east of Franklin, specifically near Cashiers, galloping southeast at a sleek pace of 45 mph. If you happen to live near popular spots like Lake Toxaway, Pumpkintown, Tuckasegee, Bad Creek, Wolf Mountain, or Whiteside Mountain, you might want to grab your comfiest blanket and find a cozy spot indoors.
Stay Safe During the Storm
Please take heed of the NWS’s advice: if you find yourself outdoors, it’s best to seek shelter within a sturdy building. The crackle and flash of lightning can be a serious threat, and it’s worth noting that lightning can strike from as far as 10 miles away from a thunderstorm. This is no time to be a hero! If you see darkening skies, don’t hesitate to head indoors.
Lightning Facts You Should Know
Driving Precautions
The rain that follows a thunderstorm can create hazardous driving conditions, leading to none other than good old hydroplaning. This slippery situation happens when your vehicle slides uncontrollably over water that builds up in front of your tires, causing a white-knuckle ride. To help prevent this, always check your tire pressure, adjust your speed, and be mindful of the road conditions. Keeping your wits about you can save you from a nail-biting experience.
Overall Advice
Stay safe, everyone, and may calm waters follow soon after tonight’s tempest!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorms Hit Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Sumter and Clarendon
Myrtle Beach and Oconee Mountains Brace for Strong Thunderstorms
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Upstate South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for McCormick and Edgefield Counties
Myrtle Beach on Thunderstorm Alert: Stay Safe!
Severe Thunderstorm Alerts in Myrtle Beach and Conway
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Myrtle Beach Area
Severe Weather Alert for Central South Carolina – Thunderstorms on the Way!
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Spartanburg County, SC
Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
- Herald Online
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm Safety
- 11Alive
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorm Impacts
- WSB TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Fox 5 Atlanta
- Google News: Weather Alerts Oconee Pickens
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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