News Summary
The severe thunderstorm warning for Orangeburg County has been officially lifted as of 6:13 p.m. The National Weather Service reports that the storm has weakened, relieving local residents. While the warning has ended, gusty winds, heavy rain, and lightning remain possible in the area. Residents are advised to exercise caution as the storm could still impact communities and travel conditions.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Orangeburg County Relaxes
Good news, Orangeburg County! As of 6:13 p.m., the severe thunderstorm warning has officially expired. Thanks to the latest updates from the National Weather Service (NWS), it seems that the storm has weakened below severe limits, allowing a collective sigh of relief from many local residents.
Storm Details
Just to recap, the severe thunderstorm warning had been in effect not just for Orangeburg County, but also extended to Bamberg and Barnwell counties. Although the warning has been lifted, the potential for gusty winds, heavy rain, and a sprinkle of cloud-to-ground lightning strikes is still on the table. So while the storm is taking a break, it might not be completely done just yet!
Earlier this evening, significant thunderstorm activity was detected around Rivers Bridge State Park, located about 11 miles northeast of Allendale, and it was moving northeast at a brisk pace of 35 mph. Residents were warned to remain cautious as wind gusts could reach around 60 mph, and the possibility of quarter-size hail had everyone on high alert.
Where You May Still Experience Effects
This storm packed enough punch to impact local communities including Barnwell, Denmark, Branchville, Rivers Bridge State Park, Ehrhardt, Olar, Cope, Govan, and Bamberg County Airport. Major highways like Interstate 26 and Interstate 95 were also mentioned as potentially affected, urging drivers to stay vigilant.
Although the previous severe thunderstorm warning was set to last until 6:45 p.m., a heads-up was provided earlier in the afternoon as strong thunderstorms were observed near Barnwell around 5:16 p.m., moving northeast at a slow 10 mph. With forecasted gusts of up to 50 mph, residents were cautioned about the potential to bring down tree limbs or perhaps toss around unsecured items. So it may be a good idea to check those lawn decorations!
Lightning Safety
One harrowing feature of thunderstorms is lightning. The NWS has alerted everyone about the frequency of cloud-to-ground lightning that often accompanies severe storms. Thunderstorms can deliver lightning strikes that occur up to 10 miles away! Each year, approximately 25 million lightning strikes hit the U.S., particularly during the summer months, resulting in an average of 20 fatalities. That’s why it’s crucial to find shelter indoors during these fierce storms.
Driving Precautions
With wet roads becoming an issue, it’s important to understand the risks of hydroplaning. This happens when water builds up in front of vehicle tires, causing them to lose traction. Staying informed about how storms affect road conditions can prevent unpleasant surprises while you’re out and about.
As we move into the evening, the recommended safety tips are straightforward: seek shelter when thunder rolls and avoid those tempting flooded roadways. Keeping safety a priority helps ensure that we can all weather the storm, both literally and figuratively!
Stay safe out there, Orangeburg County, and keep an eye on the skies!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued in South Carolina
Thunderstorm Alerts Sweep Through South Carolina
Winter Weather Hits South Carolina with Snow Flurries
Thunderstorm Alert Hits Kershaw, Lee, and Sumter Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Impact Bamberg, Calhoun, and Orangeburg Counties
Severe Thunderstorms Strike Calhoun and Surrounding Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Hits Mecklenburg County
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for York County
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Hit York County
Additional Resources
- The State: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Myrtle Beach Online: Weather Updates
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Google Scholar: Severe Thunderstorms
- Live 5 News: Orangeburg County Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- ABC Columbia: Midlands Weather
- Google News: Thunderstorms in South Carolina
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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