News Summary
Upstate South Carolina, particularly Spartanburg and surrounding counties, is bracing for severe weather as the National Weather Service issues strong thunderstorm and tornado alerts. Wind gusts up to 40 mph and hazardous conditions are expected until 9:45 p.m. on Thursday. Residents are advised to seek shelter indoors immediately. Looking ahead, a powerful storm system may hit the area over the weekend, bringing heavy rain, strong winds, and potential tornadoes. Safety precautions are essential as meteorologists monitor the situation closely.
Chilling Weather Alert for Upstate South Carolina Residents!
The bustling city of Spartanburg is facing some serious weather turmoil as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an updated report regarding strong thunderstorms that are expected to sweep through the area until 9:45 p.m. on Thursday. Residents of Cherokee, Greenville, and Spartanburg counties need to hunker down and be prepared for a rough night!
What’s Coming Our Way?
Brace yourselves, folks! The forecast is showing wind gusts reaching up to 40 mph, which could potentially wreak havoc on tree limbs and send unsecured objects flying through the air. A strong thunderstorm was tracked by Doppler radar at 9:07 p.m. and was located about 11 miles northwest of Spartanburg, near Inman. This storm is on the move, heading southeast at a brisk 35 mph. Affected areas include Reidville, Wellford, Campobello, Lake Bowen, Lake Robinson, Cowpens, Lyman, Spartanburg, GSP Airport, and Inman.
The NWS is urging everyone, especially those outdoors, to seek shelter inside a sturdy building immediately! Staying safe is the top priority, especially as this thunderstorm alert remains in effect until 9:45 p.m.
Shocking Facts About Thunderstorms
Did you know that approximately 25 million lightning strikes hit the United States each year, primarily during the summer months? That’s right! And unfortunately, the NWS reports around 20 fatalities annually related to lightning strikes. The chances of getting struck by lightning peak when a thunderstorm is directly overhead—so it’s crucial to take precautions!
Hydroplaning Warning
Let’s not forget about hydropaning when it rains! It’s that scary situation when a vehicle loses traction and slides uncontrollably over wet roads because of water pooling in front of the tires. Things like vehicle speed, the depth of tire tread, and even how deep the water is on the road can contribute to this treacherous condition. So, if you need to travel, remember to drive extra cautiously!
Looking Ahead: A Hazardous Weekend Forecast
But hold on, it looks like the weather madness may not just end tonight! A Hazardous Weather Outlook has already been issued for Anderson, Greenville, and Spartanburg counties as we head into the weekend. Get ready for a powerful storm system expected to hit the area with heavy rain and severe storms on March 15-16.
Meteorologists have indicated that strong winds, large hail, and even possible tornadoes could be part of this formidable mix. Non-thunderstorm winds may gust up to 50 mph in the North Carolina mountains. Saturday’s soaring temperatures will reach a high of 77°F, accompanied by winds gusting up to 22 mph.
Rain and Thunderstorms Ahead
As night falls on Saturday, rain and thunderstorms are expected. The chance of precipitation will likely hit a whopping 100% as we approach Saturday night, with Sunday not looking much brighter, bringing a 90% chance of showers and thunderstorms.
Brace for Impact: Tornado Alerts
As if that isn’t enough, a tornado watch has already been issued until 1 p.m. on Sunday for parts of the Upstate. Northern Spartanburg County is under a specific tornado warning until 8:45 a.m. on Sunday morning. Residents in these areas should move to a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building to stay safe. Remember to avoid windows and seek substantial shelter if you are outdoors or in a mobile home!
For everyone’s safety, residents are encouraged to report any damaging winds, hail, or flooding to the National Weather Service and ensure you’re all set for what’s shaping up to be an eventful weekend!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Severe Thunderstorm Warning for South Carolina Residents
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Severe Flooding Devastates Hopkinsville, Kentucky
Severe Storm Warnings Across the Southeast U.S.
Thunderstorm Alert: McCormick and Edgefield Counties Prepare
Additional Resources
- Fox Carolina: Spartanburg County Storm Debris Clean-Up
- Google Search: Weather Alert Spartanburg
- Greenville Online: Tornadoes Possible in Upstate SC
- Wikipedia: Tornado
- WSPA: Tornado Alert Issued in Upstate
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Go Upstate: Flood Advisory Issued in Spartanburg County
- Google News: Severe Weather
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