Spartanburg, August 17, 2025
News Summary
Spartanburg County experienced severe thunderstorms last Saturday evening, with warnings from the National Weather Service about potential strong storms. Residents faced pea-sized hail and gusty winds, while additional storms struck on Monday. Power outages affected over 8,000 customers, prompting emergency services to open a weather shelter. Local motorists were advised to be cautious due to hydroplaning risks. Communities are bracing for possible property damages as repair efforts are underway amidst continued threats from severe weather.
Severe Thunderstorms Sweep Through Spartanburg, South Carolina
Spartanburg, SC – This past Saturday evening, folks in Spartanburg County were met with some wild weather as severe thunderstorms rolled in, prompting a weather alert from the National Weather Service (NWS). The alert, which went out at 10:55 p.m., warned residents about the potential for strong thunderstorms that could last until 11:30 p.m.
What to Expect from Saturday’s Storms
The storm brought with it pea-sized hail and gusty winds that could reach up to 40 mph. Just moments before the alert, Doppler radar picked up on a strong thunderstorm around 10 miles north of downtown Spartanburg, near Boiling Springs, SC, beginning its journey southwest at a measured speed of 10 mph.
For those in the affected areas, including Boiling Springs, Inman, Lake Bowen, and Fingerville, the NWS urged everyone to stay safe indoors if possible. Those who were out and about might have found themselves dodging not just raindrops but also the small hail that punctuated the storm, potentially causing minor damage to outdoor items.
Lightning Strikes and Hydroplaning Concerns
An astounding 25 million lightning strikes hit the U.S. each year, especially during the summer months! These strikes account for around 20 deaths annually, often occurring just as a thunderstorm rolls in. Weather enthusiasts and safety experts alike know that storms and drivers need to be mindful of conditions that can lead to hydroplaning—a slippery scenario where vehicles lose traction on wet roads.
In the event of hydroplaning, drivers are reminded to follow safety protocols to reduce the risk of accidents when roads become slick.
Monday’s Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Power Outages and Community Impact
As these storms wreaked havoc on the region, Duke Energy reported over 8,000 customers left in the dark early Thursday morning, particularly affecting those in Spartanburg and Greenville counties. The emergency management team swiftly opened a weather shelter in Spartanburg for residents without power. Reports of downed trees and power lines flooded in from various locations, including Easley and Pickens County.
Restoration efforts were put into high gear as damage assessment crews worked on getting everything back to normal, but estimates for repairs ranged from noon to as late as 7 p.m. A nearby baseball game in Spartanburg was postponed due to the inclement weather, a disappointment for local fans waiting to cheer on their teams.
In addition to these issues, quarter-sized hail was reported across different counties, including Henderson and McDowell. That’s some serious weather with potential for property damage and personal safety concerns!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do during a severe thunderstorm warning?
Stay indoors, away from windows, and consider moving to a basement or a sturdier room if available.
How can I stay safe while driving during heavy rain and thunderstorms?
Reduce your speed, avoid sudden lane changes, and if you start to hydroplane, slowly ease off the gas and steer in the direction you want to go.
What are some common effects of severe thunderstorms?
Severe thunderstorms can cause strong winds, hail, lightning strikes, and heavy rains that might lead to flooding, downed trees, and power outages.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings for South Carolina Counties
Hurricane Erin Intensifies Off Hilton Head Coast
Tropical Storm Erin Approaches Charleston and Hilton Head
Hilton Head Island Prepares for Busy Beach Season with Safety Enhancements
Greenville County Braces for Strong Thunderstorms and Hail!
Severe Thunderstorms Set to Hit Greater Oconee Area
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issues for Greenville and Spartanburg
Stormy Skies Ahead for Laurens and Union Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Warning in Upstate South Carolina
Rising Home Prices Create Challenges in Hilton Head Island
Additional Resources
- Goupstate: Spartanburg County Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Herald Online: Weather News
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety
- Fox Carolina: Damage Reported During Severe Storms
- Google Scholar: Severe Thunderstorms
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- WYFF4: Power Outages During Storms
- Google News: Spartanburg Weather Alerts
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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