May 20, 2025

Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Orangeburg Area

Mays Roofing & Contracting

Mays Contracting is more than just a roofing company; it’s a family legacy built on trust and quality. Founded in 1979, we’ve been serving the community for over four decades. Our story began with a simple vision: to provide exceptional roofing services for both residential and commercial properties. This vision has guided us ever since, as we’ve grown from a small, family-run operation to a trusted name in the industry.

News Summary

Severe thunderstorm warnings have been issued for Central and Southeastern Orangeburg and Calhoun County, effective until 7 p.m. Residents can expect strong winds, hail, and the risk of lightning. Authorities advise caution on the roads and remind citizens of a statewide burn ban. Local offices will open late as the community prepares for the inclement weather ahead. Stay safe and be prepared as the storm approaches!

Heads Up, Orangeburg: Thunderstorm Warnings Are Here!

Hey there, Orangeburg! As we all know, weather can be unpredictable, and today is no exception. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Columbia has just issued **_severe thunderstorm warnings_** for our area, and it seems like we’re in for some wild weather before the day is done. So, grab your umbrellas and let’s dive into what to expect!

When and Where to Be Aware

The alert was updated at 6:26 p.m. and will be active until 7 p.m. The storm warning is impacting **_Central Orangeburg, Southeastern Orangeburg, and Calhoun County_**. So, if you’re in those areas, including *Holly Hill and Bowman*, you’ll want to keep an eye on the skies.

What Should Residents Expect?

According to Doppler radar, a strong thunderstorm was located near *Bowman*, which is about 13 miles north of Saint George. This weather system is making its way southeast at about 30 mph and is expected to bring with it **_pea-sized hail_** (that’s about 0.25 inches) and **_wind gusts up to 50 mph_**. Now, what does that mean for us? Well, those gusty winds are capable of knocking down tree limbs and tossing around unsecured objects in your yard, potentially causing minor damage to outdoor items.

Driving and Safety Tips

For anyone planning to be on the roads, please take extra precautions. The storm is affecting *Interstate 26* between mile markers **159 and 169**, and *Interstate 95* between mile markers **85 and 93**. If you happen to be out during the storm, the NWS strongly advises seeking shelter indoors. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

Lightning Is No Joke

Another thing to keep in mind: thunderstorms bring more than just rain and wind, they also bring lightning. Did you know that around 25 million lightning strikes happen across the U.S. every year? Most of these strikes occur during the summer and lead to about **_20 fatalities annually_**. The risk of lightning strikes increases as the storm approaches, peaking when the storm is right above you. So, do your best to avoid outdoor activities during this time!

Earlier Warnings and Precautions

4:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m. A severe thunderstorm was reported near *Branchville*, located about 11 miles northwest of Saint George. This storm was moving southeast at **25 mph** and could bring **_quarter-sized hail_** (that’s a whole inch!) along with wind gusts up to **60 mph**. In the Branchville area, residents might face hail damage to vehicles, and the winds could cause problems for trees and power lines.

Statewide Burn Ban in Effect

Local Updates and Community Preparedness

So, stay safe out there, Orangeburg! Keep your loved ones close, and don’t forget to check your flashlights and candles, just in case! Let’s weather this storm together!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tragic Incident on Hilton Head Island: Woman Found Unresponsive
Investigation Begins on Hilton Head Island After Woman Found Dead
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in Upstate South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Newberry and Fairfield Counties, SC
Severe Weather Alerts Issued Across South Carolina
Funding Denied for Hilton Head Island Bridge Project
Weather Alert: Oconee and Pickens Mountains Prepare for Thunderstorms
Severe Thunderstorms Hit Upstate South Carolina and Western North Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Sumter and Clarendon
Myrtle Beach and Oconee Mountains Brace for Strong Thunderstorms

Additional Resources

Author: HERE Hilton Head

Mays Contracting

Quality Roof Construction and Repair in Lexington, Richland, Newberry and Laurens Counties for over 40 Years.

Phone: 803-276-6990
Email: service@mayscontracting.com
Mon – Fri 8:30 – 5:00

Name(Required)

First Last

Email(Required)

CAPTCHA

Stay Connected

More Updates

Military tensions in the Middle East focused on Iran's nuclear sites.

Would You Like To Add Your Business?

Submit