South Carolina, August 16, 2025
News Summary
Severe thunderstorms have struck South Carolina, prompting warnings from the National Weather Service for Aiken, Barnwell, and Bamberg counties. Winds up to 50 mph and heavy rainfall are expected, leading to potential flooding in affected areas. Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid flooded roads as the severe weather unfolds.
Severe Thunderstorms and Flood Alerts Impact South Carolina
As the skies opened up over South Carolina, residents found themselves bracing for a wave of severe weather this Friday. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Columbia has issued a strong thunderstorm warning for several counties, including Aiken, Barnwell, and Bamberg, which is expected to be in effect until approximately 3:30 p.m.
At around 2:45 p.m., meteorologists tracked a formidable thunderstorm near Jackson, right by the Savannah River Site. This storm is moving southeast at a speed of 15 mph and is bringing with it some serious gusts of wind, reaching up to 50 mph. Such powerful winds can easily **knock down tree limbs** and put unsecured objects into the air, creating potentially hazardous conditions.
Areas affected by this storm include Barnwell, the Savannah River Site, New Ellenton, Jackson, Snelling, Olar, Kline, and the Barnwell County Airport to name just a few. With frequent lightning strikes accompanying the storm, residents are urged to seek shelter indoors. Did you know that lightning strikes the U.S. around 25 million times a year? It mostly occurs during the summer months and tragically accounts for about 20 fatalities annually. Staying indoors until the threat passes is the best course of action.
Flood Advisories and Warnings
In addition to thunderstorms, the heavy rainfall has led to a flood advisory being issued for Aiken, Edgefield, and Saluda counties, which will remain in effect until 2:15 a.m. EDT Saturday. Residents should expect total rain amounts to reach between 1.5 to 4 inches in some locations. This means minor flooding is likely, particularly in low-lying areas and locales that are poorly drained. Towns such as Aiken, Aiken Mall, New Ellenton, and Ridge Spring are included in the advisory.
The alert even extends to Interstate 20, particularly between mile markers 13 and 37, making travel through these areas challenging. A reminder for everyone out there: **”Turn around, don’t drown”** when you encounter flooded roadways; it’s never worth the risk.
Flash Flooding Underway
A concurrent flash flood warning is also affecting parts of northeastern Lexington and central Richland counties until 3:15 a.m. EDT Saturday. Emergency management teams have reported several water rescues due to sudden flash flooding, as these areas have already recorded rainfall totals ranging between 2.5 to 4 inches! Such severe rain can overwhelm urban settings, highways, and small waterways, creating a critical situation for residents.
As the day progresses, the dangers from flooding are expected to continue. Watch out for flooded roads and stay informed on local conditions, ensuring that you and your loved ones stay safe during this stormy weather.
Summary of Weather Alerts
- Thunderstorm Warning: Aiken, Barnwell, and Bamberg counties until 3:30 p.m. – gusts up to 50 mph.
- Flood Advisory: Aiken, Edgefield, Saluda counties until 2:15 a.m. – rainfall between 1.5 to 4 inches.
- Flash Flood Warning: Northeastern Lexington and central Richland counties until 3:15 a.m. – several water rescues reported.
FAQs
What counties are affected by the severe thunderstorm warning?
The severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Aiken, Barnwell, and Bamberg counties.
How strong are the expected winds during the storm?
Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 50 mph, which can uproot trees and blow around unsecured objects.
What should I do if I encounter flooded roads?
It’s crucial to turn around and avoid driving through flooded roadways. The phrase “Turn around, don’t drown” is a helpful reminder to keep you safe.
Is it safe to be outdoors during a lightning storm?
It’s not safe to be outdoors during a lightning storm. Lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from its parent storm, so it’s best to stay indoors.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Flash Flood Warning Issued for Jasper County, Georgia
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Charleston Faces Flash Flooding Due to Heavy Rains
Flash Flood Warning Hits Myrtle Beach Area Amid Heavy Rain
Additional Resources
- WFXG Weather Video
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
- Augusta Chronicle Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm Warning South Carolina
- WRDW Deadly Storm Coverage
- Encyclopedia Britannica: 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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