Severe Thunderstorm Alert for Spartanburg, Laurens, and Union Counties
Hey there, folks! If you’re in Southern Spartanburg, Laurens, or Union counties, listen up! The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm alert that’s in effect until 7:15 p.m. this evening. So, it’s time to grab a cozy spot indoors and stay safe!
What’s Happening?
As of 6:31 p.m., Doppler radar picked up a strong thunderstorm moving its way through the area. This storm was located about 9 miles northeast of Laurens—or roughly 6 miles north of Clinton—and it’s zipping southeast at around 20 mph. Residents in nearby communities, including Clinton, Joanna, Cross Anchor, Sedalia, Kinards, Cross Keys, and Ora, are advised to be on high alert.
One of the biggest concerns with this thunderstorm is wind gusts that could reach up to 40 mph. It’s likely that these strong winds could knock down tree limbs and send unsecured items flying. So if you have things outside, it might be a good idea to bring them in now!
Local Impacts
The storm isn’t just bringing winds—it’s also delivering a hefty amount of rainfall. With the heavy downpour, there’s a chance of localized flooding. Always remember: if you see flooded roads, it’s best not to drive through them. It may seem like a small stream, but you never know how deep it actually is!
Safety First!
If you can, try to stay indoors until the storm passes. If you find yourself outside and unable to reach a building, please seek shelter as soon as possible. When thunderstorms are around, lightning is also a big concern. Every year, around 25 million lightning strikes occur in the U.S., primarily during the summer months, resulting in about 20 fatalities. So, let’s play it safe!
Understanding Hydroplaning
Now, let’s talk a bit about something that can happen when it pours: hydroplaning. This occurs when a vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads. Essentially, when water in front of your tires collects faster than your car can push it aside, the car can rise up and glide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road. Yikes!
Hydroplaning usually happens due to a combination of factors: your tire tread depth, the speed at which you’re driving, and how much standing water is on the road. If you find yourself hydroplaning, the best thing to do is to stay calm, take your foot off the gas, and steer straight until you regain control. Remember—panic can make the situation worse!
Let’s Stay Prepared!
Until next time, stay dry and keep your spirits high!
Author: STAFF HERE ROCK HILL
The ROCK HILL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERockHill.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Rock Hill, York 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 Come-See-Me Festival, Rock Hill Arts Festival, and motorsport events at the Rock Hill Velodrome. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce and the Culture & Heritage Museums, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and technology that power the local economy such as 3D Systems and Comporium. 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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