South Carolina, August 14, 2025
News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm alert for Edgefield, Saluda, Lexington, and Aiken counties until 11:45 p.m. Residents can expect wind gusts of up to 50 mph, torrential rainfall, and increased lightning activity. Key areas affected include Batesburg-Leesville, Johnston, and Ridge Spring. Safety precautions are advised, including seeking shelter and avoiding flooded roadways.
Severe Thunderstorm Alert in South Carolina!
Good evening, South Carolina! If you’re in the Edgefield, Saluda, Lexington, and Aiken counties, it’s time to think about your safety because the National Weather Service has just rolled out a severe thunderstorm alert that goes until 11:45 p.m. tonight.
What’s Happening?
As of 11:11 p.m. on Wednesday, Doppler radar has picked up a strong thunderstorm making its way near the Aiken Municipal Airport. This storm is moving northeast at a speed of 25 mph and could bring some pretty intense weather to your area! Wind gusts could reach up to 50 mph. That’s no small breeze!
Expected Impact Areas
Here’s a quick rundown of where the storm is hitting hard:
- Batesburg-Leesville
- Saluda
- Johnston
- Ridge Spring
- Wagener
- Pelion
- And several more locations!
Yes, you heard it right! Areas like the Saluda County Airport and even communities like Hickory Grove are all in line for some rough weather. This alert also covers a stretch of Interstate 20 between mile markers 24 and 43, so be extra cautious if you’re on the road.
What to Expect
Now, you might be wondering what exactly to expect during this tumultuous time. According to forecasts, residents might experience:
- Gusty winds that may topple tree limbs and blow around any unsecured items.
- Torrential rainfall that could lead to localized flooding. Keep in mind, it’s best to steer clear of flooded roadways!
- An increase in lighting activity, as lightning strikes the U.S. approximately 25 million times annually, especially during the summer months.
Safety First!
During this storm, your safety is the top priority! The NWS has advised that if you’re outdoors when the storm hits, make a bee-line for shelter indoors. And when it comes to driving, be sure to watch out for hydroplaning—a scary situation that happens when a vehicle loses traction on wet roads. Hydroplaning can be a concern when:
- You’re driving at excessive speeds.
- Your tires are worn.
- There’s standing water on the roads.
In Conclusion
So, South Carolina, keep an eye on the skies tonight, and don’t forget to take precautions! Stay safe, and await further updates as the situation develops.
FAQs
What counties are under the severe thunderstorm alert?
Edgefield, Saluda, Lexington, and Aiken counties are currently under the alert.
What kind of conditions can we expect during the storm?
Residents may experience wind gusts up to 50 mph, torrential rain that could cause localized flooding, and lightning strikes.
Is it safe to drive during this storm?
It’s best to avoid driving if possible. If you must drive, be careful to avoid flooded roadways and watch for hydroplaning.
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Severe Thunderstorm Alert
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Island Packet: Thunderstorm News
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm South Carolina
- WFXG News: Weather Updates
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorm Impact
- The State: Weather Alerts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- WRDW: Deadly Storm Reports
- Google News: Severe Thunderstorm South Carolina
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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