News Summary
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Cherokee and Spartanburg counties, effective from 8:13 p.m. to 8:45 p.m. Residents should prepare for high winds, hail, and potential lightning strikes. Areas impacted include Gaffney, Mayo, Cowpens, and Chesnee. Safety precautions are advised, such as seeking shelter indoors and avoiding Windows. The storm is characterized by gusty winds of up to 55 mph and marble-sized hail. This weather event serves as a reminder of the importance of being vigilant during summer thunderstorms.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Hits Cherokee and Spartanburg Counties
Residents of Cherokee and Spartanburg counties, brace yourselves! The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning that started at 8:13 p.m. and is set to last until 8:45 p.m. This weather event can really pack a punch with some serious winds and hail!
What to Expect
The strong thunderstorms are already brewing in the area, with Doppler radar showing a powerful storm just 9 miles west of Gaffney, close to Mayo. This storm isn’t moving much, which means it’s got a bit more time to make its presence felt. Get ready for marble-sized hail, measuring around 0.5 inches, and gusty winds swirling up to 55 mph. That’s right, folks—don’t underestimate these winds! They may lead to downed tree limbs and could toss around any loose objects you have outside.
Affected Areas
This stormy alert isn’t just for Gaffney and Mayo. It’s spreading its reach to several areas including Cowpens, Chesnee, and even the storied Cowpens National Battlefield. So, if you live in these areas, it’s time to take note—Iced tea on the porch can wait!
Safety First!
If you find yourself outdoors, the best course of action is to seek shelter indoors right away. Lightning is a serious concern with these storms, and it can strike as far as 10 miles away from where the storm is located. In fact, the U.S. sees around 25 million lightning strikes annually, mainly during the summer months, and about 20 people lose their lives to it every year. Keep yourself safe and sound!
Thunderstorm Tips
Here are some quick tips for riding out a thunderstorm:
- Stay Indoors: If a storm is forecast, it’s best to stay indoors until you know it’s safe.
- Avoid Windows: Flying debris or hail can easily break windows and cause injuries.
- Don’t Use Electrical Appliances: Unplug your appliances if you can to avoid any power surges from lightning strikes.
Driving Cautions
While we’re on the topic of safety, let’s talk driving! If you plan to be on the road, remember that hydroplaning can be a real danger during heavy rain. Hydroplaning is when your tires slide uncontrollably on wet roads due to water build-up. Always maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and reduce speed if the roads are slick.
Stay Tuned for Updates
The thunderstorm warning will remain in effect until 8:45 p.m., so keep an eye on the skies and stay alert for any further updates. Stay safe and take care of each other out there! By preparing in advance and being mindful of the weather, we can all weather this storm together.
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Severe Weather Alert for Thunderstorms in South Carolina and Georgia
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- The State: Weather News
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg News
- Google Scholar: Severe Thunderstorm Guidelines
- Greenville Online: Weather Alert
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Herald Online: Weather News
- Google News: Thunderstorm
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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