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Severe Thunderstorm Warning Alert in Central South Carolina

A severe thunderstorm cloud formation over South Carolina

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News Summary

A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Central South Carolina, urging residents to stay alert until conditions improve. Meteorologists report strong storms with wind gusts up to 50 mph moving rapidly through the area, affecting several counties including Orangeburg and Calhoun. Residents are advised to seek shelter and remain cautious while driving, particularly on Interstate 26 and Interstate 95, as hazardous conditions may arise. A tornado watch is also in effect until 8 p.m., emphasizing the need for safety and preparedness during this severe weather event.

Severe Thunderstorm Warning Alert in Central South Carolina

Attention, residents of Central South Carolina! A severe thunderstorm warning has been put into effect as of Monday at 7:02 p.m. The National Weather Service in Columbia SC is urging folks to stay alert until the warning expires at 7:45 p.m. This warning covers some of the area‘s most notable counties, including Central and Southeastern Orangeburg, Calhoun, Clarendon, and Bamberg.

What’s Happening Right Now?

At 7:01 p.m., Doppler radar picked up strong thunderstorms making their way from just 7 miles southwest of the Orangeburg County Airport to the vicinity of Bamberg and Rivers Bridge State Park. The storms are moving rapidly east at approximately 50 mph, so it’s essential to stay aware and take precautions if you’re in the affected areas.

Expect wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph, which could lead to fallen tree limbs and other unsecured items blowing around in the wind. If you live in or are near the following locations: Bowman, Poplar Creek Landing, Rowesville, Vance, Ehrhardt, Santee State Park, Eutaw Springs, Santee Cooper Regional Airport, Branchville, Blounts Landing, Holly Hill, Cope, Orangeburg County Airport, St. Paul, Rocks Pond Campground, Yonder Field, Eutawville, Indian Bluff Recreation Park, Elloree, or Santee, you may need to take action now.

Highway Safety

Drivers on the road should also be aware that Interstate 26 is affected between mile markers 152 and 169, and Interstate 95 is also seeing impacts between mile markers 85 and 110. The winds and rain could result in hazardous driving conditions, so if you find yourself on the road, be cautious and prepared for sudden changes in weather!

What You Should Do

If you’re currently outside or planning to be outdoors shortly, find shelter indoors immediately. The NWS is especially warning against being on or in Lake Marion during the thunderstorm. Remember, lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from a thunderstorm, so don’t take any chances. In fact, the average annual number of lightning strikes in the U.S. is about 25 million, leading to around 20 fatalities! Your safety is paramount!

Additional Alerts

tornado watch is in place until 8 p.m. for central South Carolina, adding another layer of urgency. Residents are reminded of the dangers posed by lightning, strong wind gusts, and even hail, with the earlier warning forecasting quarter-sized hail (about 1 inch) and gusts up to 60 mph!

Earlier that day, at 6:01 p.m., a separate severe thunderstorm warning covered Clarendon and Orangeburg counties until 6:30 p.m. The storms near Holly Hill were particularly concerning, moving at 35 mph. Some of the affected areas included Eutaw Springs, Indian Bluff Recreation Park, and Santee, alongside portions of Interstate 95.

What to Watch For

As the storm continues to develop, it has been rated at a Level 3 out of 5 in terms of inland storm threats by the Storm Prediction Center. Strong winds pose risks to roofs, siding, and trees, and hail can be hazardous as well. As meteorologists speculate, this storm system may weaken as it approaches the coast, so keep your fingers crossed!

Final Safety Tips

Finally, if you are a driver, be mindful of the possibility of hydroplaning, which occurs when your tires lose contact with the road due to water accumulation. Maintain a safe speed, ensure your tires are in great condition, and be ready for sudden stops. High-profile vehicles should exercise extreme caution, especially when traversing bridges.

Stay safe out there, Central South Carolina! Keep your loved ones informed, and let’s weather this storm together!