South Carolina, August 2, 2025
News Summary
Residents across South Carolina are on high alert due to severe thunderstorm warnings issued for multiple counties. The National Weather Service reported strong storms affecting areas like Inland Colleton, Allendale, and Hampton, with gusty winds and potential hazards. Travelers are advised to exercise caution, especially on I-95, as storms bring risks like lightning and hydroplaning. New alerts for Inland Berkeley and Tidal Berkeley counties indicate continued severe weather, prompting local communities to remain vigilant and prepared as the storm season unfolds.
Severe Thunderstorm Alerts Hit South Carolina, Residents Urged to Stay Alert
As the evening rolled in, residents across South Carolina found themselves on high alert due to a series of severe thunderstorm warnings issued for several counties. Specifically, the National Weather Service (NWS) based in Charleston released updates around 8:52 p.m. on Friday, indicating that strong thunderstorms were wreaking havoc in Inland Colleton, Allendale, and Hampton counties. The warning was set to stay in effect until at least 9:15 p.m.
According to radar reports, a powerful storm was spotted over Estill and was moving at a brisk pace of 25 miles per hour toward the east. As it approached, it brought with it gusty winds capable of downing tree limbs and tossing around unsecured items, causing potential hazards. Popular local hotspots such as Walterboro, Lake Warren State Park, and the areas of Hampton and Varnville found themselves in the storm’s trajectory.
Travelers were also advised to be extra cautious, especially as portions of I-95 between mile markers 44 and 56 were affected. The NWS recommended tuning into reliable sources for the latest weather information. With thunderstorms, it’s wise to stay informed, as lightning can be particularly dangerous, striking about 25 million times annually across the country—equating to about 20 fatalities each year. Lightning sets its sights highest just as a storm rolls in, and safety measures should always be taken seriously.
If you find yourself caught in a storm without shelter, there are safety precautions recommended by the NWS that everyone should keep in mind. Avoid standing under trees, and be wary of hydroplaning—a dangerous condition where vehicles lose traction on wet roads due to accumulated water under tires.
As the clock struck 9:34 p.m., new alerts were issued for Inland Berkeley and Tidal Berkeley counties. Another strong thunderstorm was detected over Pinopolis, with its path directed southeast at 20 mph. Cities like North Charleston, Moncks Corner, and Summerville all braced for impact as the storm loomed closer. Both I-26 and local communities were advised to stay vigilant.
Earlier warnings for Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, and Colleton counties were set to expire by 10:45 a.m. Saturday, but even with some storms weakening, heavy rains were still anticipated. The radar picked up on a series of storms previously stretching northeast from Cross to Kiawah Island at 45 mph.
Residents should remain aware of high winds that can cause damage to roofs and trees, leading to power outages in the wake of fallen tree limbs. Hail also poses a risk, particularly to outdoor belongings, as thunderstorms often bring unpredictable weather patterns.
As the storms continued to roll through South Carolina, it’s a good reminder for everyone to keep their weather apps updated and their phones charged—storm season can be unpredictable, but preparedness is key. Let’s keep our communities safe!
FAQ
What should I do during a severe thunderstorm warning?
Stay indoors if possible, avoid windows, and do not stand under trees. Monitor weather alerts for updates.
What is hydroplaning and how can I prevent it?
Hydroplaning occurs when water builds up under your tires, making them lose contact with the road. To prevent it, slow down when roads are wet and avoid sudden turns.
How can I find the latest weather updates?
Use NOAA Weather Radio, local TV stations, or trustworthy weather apps to get real-time updates on storm activity.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Strong Thunderstorm Alert in Charleston Area
Beaufort County Implements New Flood Alert System
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Inland Jasper and Charleston County
Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Upstate South Carolina
Beaufort County Prepares for Extreme Heat Wave
Hilton Head Island Football Team Aims High in Upcoming Season
Extreme Heat Wave Hits the Northeastern U.S.
Hilton Head Island: Balancing Growth and Quality of Life
Tragic Drownings Highlight Water Safety Risks in Hilton Head
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Severe Thunderstorm Alerts
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Myrtle Beach Online: Weather News
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm Warnings South Carolina
- Live 5 News: Lowcountry Counties Under Thunderstorm Warning
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- ABC News 4: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Google News: Thunderstorm Warnings
- Count on 2: Tornado Warning for Lowcountry Counties
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.

Mays Contracting

