News Summary
A severe thunderstorm alert has been issued for Newberry and Fairfield Counties in South Carolina. The National Weather Service warns of strong thunderstorms with potential pea-sized hail and wind gusts up to 50 mph. Residents are advised to prepare for strong winds, possible power outages, and to seek indoor shelter. As storms develop, those driving should be cautious of hydroplaning. The alert highlights the potential for further severe weather across the Midlands region, including tornado warnings. Stay safe and be prepared for changing conditions.
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Newberry and Fairfield Counties, SC
Hey there folks in Newberry and Fairfield Counties! It looks like Mother Nature has a little surprise in store for you this Saturday. An alert has just been issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Columbia, SC, warning about some potentially strong thunderstorms rolling into the area. This alert came out bright and early at 9:04 a.m., and it’s set to stick around until about 9:45 a.m., so let’s get ready!
What’s in Store?
According to the latest info, these storms are packing a punch with pea-sized hail — that’s about 0.25 inches for all you weather enthusiasts out there — and wind gusts that could reach up to 50 mph. That’s strong enough to send unsecured items sailing across your yard! So, if you have anything light that’s hanging around outside, it might be a good idea to bring it inside.
The NWS reports that Doppler radar has caught sight of a strong storm brewing near Clinton, which is just 13 miles east of Laurens, barreling eastwards at a speedy 40 mph. If you live in or around towns like Whitmire, Blair, and Maybington Fire Station, you might want to keep your eyes on the sky. Other locations in the affected zone include:
- US-176
- SC-34 Crossroads
- Feasterville Fire Station
- Henderson Island
- Enoree Ranger District Office
- Kinards
- Interstate 26 between mile markers 62 and 67
Safety Tips During a Thunderstorm
If you find yourself outdoors when the storm hits, it’s highly advisable to seek shelter inside a building immediately. Thunderstorms can trigger severe lightning strikes, and with around 25 million lightning strikes reported each year in the U.S., it’s smarter to be safe than sorry. Remember, the risk of lightning grows as the storm approaches and is at its peak right when the storm is overhead.
For those driving, be aware that hydroplaning—sliding uncontrollably on wet roads—can happen due to water building up in front of your tires. This can easily lead to losing control of your vehicle, so make sure to keep your speed down as the rain begins.
Further Weather Precautions
Even after this initial storm passes, expect winds of 30 to 45 mph throughout the day. For those in the eastern parts of the Midlands and Pee Dee region, there’s even a low chance of tornado warnings being issued later, so keep an eye on those forecasts.
Check Your Surroundings
If you live in areas facing the greatest risk from high winds, such as Lee, Sumter, eastern Calhoun, Clarendon, and eastern Orangeburg counties, now would be a great time to ensure that you’re prepared and all set for whatever weather unfolds!
So, make sure you’re inside, stay safe, and grab a cozy spot on the couch while you weather the storm. Keep those helpful tips in mind, and buckle in as we ride through whatever Mother Nature has to offer today!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Weather Alerts Issued Across South Carolina
Weather Alert: Oconee and Pickens Mountains Prepare for Thunderstorms
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 Warnings in Anderson and Greenville Counties
Union County Experiences Tornado: Key Details Revealed
Severe Weather Alert Issued for Charleston and Berkeley Counties
Tropical Storm Helene Causes Widespread Damage in Beaufort County
Flood Warnings Issued for Hilton Head After Weekend Storms
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Severe Thunderstorm Alert
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Island Packet: Weather Update
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety Tips
- Main Street Daily News: Newberry City Commission
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- ABC Columbia: Storm Updates
- Google News: Severe Weather Forecast South Carolina
Mays Contracting
