News Summary
Residents of Southeastern Orangeburg, Sumter, and Clarendon Counties in South Carolina have been issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning by the National Weather Service. Wind gusts could reach up to 50 mph, posing risks such as downed tree limbs and flying debris. The warning is active until 7:15 p.m. tonight, urging those in affected areas to seek shelter indoors. In addition to storms, a heat advisory has been issued for the region, with temperatures expected to soar to around 100 degrees. Stay updated and prioritize safety during this unpredictable weather.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning in the Heart of South Carolina
This evening, folks in Southeastern Orangeburg, Sumter, and Clarendon Counties were put on alert as the National Weather Service in Columbia has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning. The warning, which came through at 6:31 p.m., is set to last until 7:15 p.m. So, grab a snack and hunker down because there’s some wild weather heading our way!
What to Expect
Residents can brace for wind gusts reaching up to a whopping 50 mph. While that might sound thrilling, it brings a risk of tree limbs coming down and those pesky outdoor items being tossed around like they’re in a game of catch. The storms are currently tracked to be moving from 8 miles west of Hebron all the way to 6 miles west of Cross, steadily rolling west at about 15 mph.
Where is the Action Happening?
If you’re anywhere near the following spots, you might want to consider moving indoors:
- Manning
- Summerton
- Alcolu
- Santee State Park
- Santee Cooper Regional Airport
- Santee
- Eutawville
- Paxville
- Vance
- St. Paul
- Rocks Pond Campground
- Foreston
- Eautaw Springs
- Indian Bluff Recreation Park
- Gable
- Davis Station
- Blounts Landing
- Mill Creek Marina and Campground
This alert also includes stretches of Interstate 95 from mile markers 95 to 133. So, if you’re planning on hitting the road, it might be best to wait it out.
Safety First!
Heads up! If you happen to be outside, the NWS highly advises finding shelter inside a sturdy building due to the potential for frequent cloud-to-ground lightning during these storms. Did you know that lightning can strike even 10 miles away from where the storm is happening? So, it’s best to play it safe!
Heat Advisory Also in Effect
As if storms weren’t enough, there’s a heat advisory in the Columbia area too! With predicted temperatures soaring to around 100 degrees and a heat index possibly reaching a sizzling 110, proper precautions for the heat are equally essential. Make sure you stay hydrated – your body will thank you!
More Thunderstorms Ahead
Unfortunately, it looks like the stormy weather isn’t just a one-time deal. Additional thunderstorms are forecasted throughout the week with temperatures lingering in the comfortable yet steamy low to mid-90s. So, this could turn into an interesting week!
Staying Safe on Wet Roads
With all this rain coming our way, it’s vital to keep in mind the dangers of hydroplaning. This slippery situation occurs when your vehicle glides uncontrollably over a buildup of water on the road. If you find yourself out there driving, slow down and keep your focus on the road.
To Wrap It Up
The weather may be putting on quite a show, but we can face it together. Stay inside, drink some water, and wait for clear skies. Remember, safety is key, especially with severe thunderstorm warnings and the heat advisory looming over our heads. Keep safe out there, everyone!
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Additional Resources
- The State: Severe Thunderstorms in Southeastern South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Herald Online: Weather News Update
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety
- WLTX: Columbia Weather Forecast
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorm Impacts
- WACH: Wet Weather and Storms Ahead
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm

Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HERE Hilton Head Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Hilton Head community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Hilton Head Our team includes lifelong Hilton Head residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent listings of historic homes 0 , Hilton Head’s Gullah heritage and coastal culture 6 , and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Technical College of the Lowcountry programs) 10 . Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Hilton Head Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and...