News Summary
Severe thunderstorms have hit Calhoun, Clarendon, and Orangeburg counties, bringing wind gusts up to 60 mph and potential flooding. Residents are advised to stay indoors and be cautious, especially near major highways. The National Weather Service has issued safety precautions, urging people to move to safe areas and avoid flooded roads. With continued storm activity expected, residents should remain vigilant and informed.
Severe Thunderstorms Hit Local Areas
Attention everyone in Calhoun, Clarendon, and Orangeburg counties! A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued, and you should be aware of what’s coming your way. The announcement was made at 6:15 p.m. on Thursday, with the warning staying in effect until 7 p.m. So, what does this mean for you? Let’s break it down!
Hold On Tight: Wind Warning
Get ready for some serious wind action! Residents in the affected areas need to brace themselves for wind gusts that could hit up to 60 mph. That’s not just a breeze; that could lead to potential damage to trees and power lines. Besides, when a severe thunderstorm is rolling in, you definitely want to be careful!
Storms on the Move
As of the time the warning was issued, Meteorologists tracked a severe thunderstorm near Holly Hill, about 15 miles north of Saint George, moving east at approximately 25 mph. It’s always important to stay on top of these developments, especially if you live in towns like Manning, Summerton, Elloree, Santee State Park, or near the Santee Cooper Regional Airport.
Be Prepared: Know Your Environment
Other spots under this warning include Eutawville, Vance, Poplar Creek Landing, St. Paul, Stumphole Landing, Rocks Pond Campground, Marina, Foreston, Eutaw Springs, Indian Bluff Recreation Park, Davis Station, Blounts Landing, and Mill Creek Marina and Campground. If you’re on the roads, it’s crucial to know that major highways like Interstate 26 (between mile markers 164 and 169) and Interstate 95 (from mile marker 85 to 117) are also impacted. If you’re traveling, make sure you drive with caution.
Safety Precautions
Your safety is the number one priority! The National Weather Service highly advises everyone to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of your building. If you have a basement, that’s even better! Stay away from windows, as strong winds can cause debris to fly around. They can really pack a punch.
Stay Informed: Flood Advisory Issued
In addition to the thunderstorm warning, a flood advisory was also released at 5:45 p.m. for Calhoun and Orangeburg counties, valid until 7:45 p.m. Minor urban and small stream flooding is likely due to excessive rainfall. Low-lying and poorly-drained areas are especially at risk, so please remember: if you encounter flooded roadways, don’t drive through it. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
General Awareness
Did you know that around 25 million lightning strikes occur annually in the U.S.? Sadly, about 20 people lose their lives each year because of lightning strikes. The danger is real, and it’s a stark reminder to stay indoors when severe weather is on the horizon. Also, make sure to avoid hydroplaning, which can happen when your vehicle loses contact with the road due to water.
A Stormy Outlook
The unsettled weather pattern doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon! There’s a greater than 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms continuing through Friday. Planning outdoor activities? As tempting as it may be, it might be wise to keep those plans flexible.
So, keep your eyes on the skies, stay safe, and take care of one another! This storm shall pass, but let’s be vigilant and prepared during its duration.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Thunderstorms and Flash Flooding Alert for York and Lancaster Counties
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Island Packet
- Google Search: severe thunderstorm warnings
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Google Scholar: thunderstorm safety
- The T&D
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- WLTX
- Google News: thunderstorm safety precautions
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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