News Summary
This weekend, Hilton Head and surrounding areas are set to face severe thunderstorms as a cold front approaches. The National Weather Service warns of heavy rain and damaging winds, advising residents and visitors to avoid outdoor activities, particularly at the beach. Up to two inches of rain is expected Saturday night, leading into potential flooding risks early next week. Caution is urged as the situation develops.
Severe Thunderstorms Forecasted for Hilton Head and Surrounding Areas This Weekend
Hilton Head and its surrounding areas are expected to experience severe thunderstorms this weekend due to a cold front moving into the region. Following a round of heavy rain and thunderstorms that affected the area on Thursday afternoon, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued warnings and advisories for local residents and visitors.
Forecasts indicate that Saturday night could bring up to two inches of rain along with additional thunderstorms. Meteorologists currently classify the upcoming storms as a “marginal risk,” indicating the potential for locally damaging winds and hail. However, there is no significant risk of tornadoes associated with these forecasts.
Residents and visitors are strongly advised against beach outings this weekend due to the adverse weather conditions. The NWS is projecting that heavy rainfall will continue into next week, with significant flooding risks anticipated on Monday and Tuesday when low pressure moves through the area.
Current Weather Warnings
A severe thunderstorm warning was issued by the NWS Columbia SC on Friday at 1:58 a.m., effective until 2:15 a.m. for Aiken and Lexington counties. The storm produced quarter-sized hail measuring one inch and wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph, with expectations of damage to vehicles and infrastructure.
Areas impacted by this warning include Batesburg-Leesville, Gilbert, Summit, and several locations along Interstate 20 between mile markers 29 and 51. Prior to this announcement, a severe thunderstorm warning had already been issued for Fairfield County, warning of quarter-sized hail and strong winds. Chester County also received alerts predicting penny-sized hail at 0.75 inches and wind gusts up to 60 mph.
Safety Recommendations
During thunderstorms, individuals are advised to seek indoor shelter whenever possible. If a tornado is spotted, authorities recommend taking cover in a basement or a small interior room within a sturdy building to ensure safety during extreme weather conditions. Lightning strikes about 25 million times annually in the United States, particularly during the summer months, resulting in an average of 20 fatalities each year.
Background Context
Much of the Lowcountry, including Beaufort County, is currently experiencing a moderate drought, which means the arrival of rain could help alleviate dry conditions in the region. Meteorologists continue to monitor the evolving weather patterns and advise residents to remain vigilant. Rainfall projected for Monday and Tuesday poses the greatest flood risk, particularly in areas already vulnerable to flooding.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed of updates from the National Weather Service as conditions develop further throughout the weekend. Preparedness and awareness are key to ensuring safety during severe weather events like these.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Thunderstorm Alerts in Myrtle Beach and Conway
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Myrtle Beach Area
Severe Weather Alert for Central South Carolina – Thunderstorms on the Way!
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Severe Thunderstorms Forecasted for Hilton Head
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Island Packet: Weather Updates
- Google Search: Severe Weather Safety
- Island Packet: Local Weather Conditions
- Google Scholar: Severe Thunderstorms
- Island Packet: National Weather Service Alerts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Island Packet: Weather Advisory Updates
- Google News: Thunderstorm Warnings
