Upstate South Carolina, September 5, 2025
News Summary
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning is in effect for areas in upstate South Carolina including the Oconee Mountains, Greater Oconee, and Greater Pickens. The National Weather Service warns of thunderstorms moving southeast at 25 mph, with gusty winds possibly reaching 40 mph. Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid flooded areas as conditions may worsen. Safety tips and FAQs are provided to help the public. The warning is effective until 10:45 p.m.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Hits Upstate South Carolina
Residents of upstate South Carolina, particularly in the Oconee Mountains, Greater Oconee, and Greater Pickens areas, should prepare for some noisy and potentially troublesome weather. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning was just issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Greenville-Spartanburg at 10:08 p.m. Thursday, indicating that strong thunderstorms could stick around until about 10:45 p.m.
According to radar updates, strong thunderstorms are currently rolling through – moving southeast at around 25 mph. The line of storms stretches from about 13 miles north of Seneca to Walhalla, reaching as far as 9 miles northeast of Toccoa. Winds can get gusty, potentially reaching up to 40 mph, so it’s wise for residents in areas like Clemson, Seneca, Walhalla, Central, Westminster, Norris, Six Mile, Lake Keowee, Oconee State Park, and Salem to stay alert!
Safety First: Staying Indoors is Key
It’s no secret that thunderstorms can be unpredictable and intense. If you happen to be outdoors, it’s crucial to seek shelter. Torrential rainfall can lead to localized flooding, making it important for folks to avoid driving through flooded roadways. Remember to check local radio or TV stations for the latest updates as the storms may intensify and additional warnings can come out.
If you’re on or near Lake Keowee, it’s best to head out of the water and find shelter indoors or in a vehicle. Lightning is a serious risk during thunderstorms, striking out to 10 miles from the main storm. If you hear thunder, you’re at risk. In fact, research shows that there are about 25 million lightning strikes in the U.S. every year, most occurring in the summer and tragically causing around 20 fatalities annually.
How to Stay Safe During Thunderstorms
Here are some essential safety tips to recall when thunderstorms roll in:
- Seek indoor shelter if possible.
- Keep away from windows and doors.
- If driving and you begin to hydroplane – where water buildup causes loss of control – don’t panic! Ease off the gas, steer straight, and avoid sudden movements.
As we keep our fingers crossed that the storms will move along without causing too much disruption, let’s stay alert and keep an eye on weather updates. Protecting ourselves and our loved ones during weather events is incredibly important.
FAQ Section
What should I do if there’s a severe thunderstorm warning?
If you receive a severe thunderstorm warning, it’s essential to seek indoor shelter, stay away from windows, and monitor local weather updates.
Is it safe to drive during a thunderstorm?
Driving during a thunderstorm can be dangerous, especially if flooding occurs. It’s best to wait it out until conditions improve.
How can I protect myself from lightning strikes?
To protect yourself from lightning, stay indoors during storms, avoid using wired electronics, and take shelter if caught outside.
Key Features of the Thunderstorm Warning
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Issued By | National Weather Service (NWS) |
| Effective Until | 10:45 p.m. |
| Wind Gusts | Up to 40 mph |
| Key Areas Affected | Clemson, Seneca, Walhalla, and others |
| Primary Risk | Lightning and flooding |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Online
- Independent Mail
- WSPA News
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
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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