News Summary
A Severe Thunderstorm Alert has been issued for Inland Jasper, Georgia, and neighboring areas, including Statesboro and Metter. The storm, moving at 45 mph, can bring penny-sized hail, gusty winds, and potential power outages. Residents are advised to stay informed through local news and safety services. With a history of intense weather patterns in the region, precautions are essential to ensure safety during these unpredictable storms.
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Hits Coastal Georgia and South Carolina!
Hey there folks! If you’re in Coastal Georgia or South Carolina, it’s time to pay attention. A **_Severe Thunderstorm Alert_** was issued for Inland Jasper at 5:30 PM on Friday and is expected to stick around until about 6 PM. This isn’t just a passing shower; we’re talking some serious weather!
What’s Coming Our Way?
Doppler radar has been busy tracking a strong thunderstorm just near Leefield. This bad boy is moving east at a brisk 45 mph. Hold onto your hats because we might see some **_penny-sized hail_** – that’s about 0.75 inches, just the size to dent your car if you happen to be out and about.
Along with hail, gusty winds could be strong enough to knock down tree limbs and send unsecured items flying. A little chance of minor damage to outdoor objects is definitely a possibility, so if you’ve got anything loose outside, now would be a great time to bring it indoors!
Areas Affected
It’s not just Jasper that needs to be aware. The thunderstorm alert covers a range of locations including **_Statesboro, Metter, Springfield, Rincon, Guyton, Brooklet, Portal, Cobbtown, Pulaski,_** and **_Register._** If you’re driving on I-16 between mile markers 96 and 129, keep your wits about you as this alert includes that stretch as well!
Stay Informed!
The National Weather Service highly recommends keeping an ear out for updates. Tune into NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, local TV stations, or your favorite news channels to stay on top of the latest weather updates. As the storm moves, it may even intensify, so don’t let your guard down!
Lightning Risks
Here’s a fun but scary fact: the U.S. sees around **_25 million lightning strikes_** every year, leading to about **_20 fatalities_** annually during those sultry summer months. When a thunderstorm rolls in, the risk of lightning strikes increases, peaking when the storm is directly overhead. So, if you hear that rumble, it might be time to head inside!
Driving Safety Tips
Are you planning to hit the road? Be cautious! Hydroplaning can be a real danger during thunderstorms. This happens when a vehicle slides uncontrollably on wet roads due to water accumulation. It’s important to know that this can happen if the water builds up faster than your car can push it out of the way, leading to a loss of control. Always watch out for water depth, tire tread, and your speed when driving in wet conditions!
Recent Weather Patterns
Earlier this week, residents faced their own share of wild weather with a tornado watch that expired in Lowcountry. Several counties, including Charleston, were under a severe thunderstorm watch that came to an end Wednesday morning. Wind gusts reported throughout the area were quite intense, with readings reaching **_55 mph at Charleston International Airport_** and around **_47 mph in Summerville._** Charleston itself gusted to 45 mph, showcasing just how powerful this weather can get.
Power Outages
It’s worth noting that nearly **_20,000 customers in Berkeley County_** experienced power outages at one point with those strong winds. So, don’t be surprised if you find yourself in the dark for a bit!
Community Safety Initiative
In light of all this, the city of **_Statesboro_** and Bulloch County are stepping up their safety game. They’ve launched a partnership with CodeRED, an emergency notification service aimed at enhancing public safety and improving emergency communications. So try to take a moment to sign up and become part of your community’s safety network!
Remember, stormy weather can be unpredictable and dangerous. Stay safe, keep yourself informed, and be prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws your way!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in York County
Rock Hill Tornado Causes Damage and Concern
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Hits South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for South Carolina Counties
Severe Thunderstorms Hit South Carolina: Are You Prepared?
Floyd, New Mexico: EF-1 Tornado Brings Damage and Disruption
Severe Thunderstorms Hit Lowcountry of South Carolina
Severe Weather Alert: Thunderstorms Hit South Carolina and North Carolina
Severe Thunderstorms and Flooding Warnings Hit Charleston
Rock Hill Real Estate Market Stabilizes with Increased Inventory
Additional Resources
- Count on 2: Weather Alert – Risk of Damaging Winds and Isolated Tornadoes
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm
- Grice Connect: Tornado Watch Issued for Areas in Georgia and South Carolina
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety
- Live 5 News: First Alert Tornado Watch in Lowcountry
- Google Scholar: Weather Safety
- Island Packet: Weather News – Update on Severe Weather
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado
- Herald Online: Severe Weather Alert and Updates
- Google News: Severe Weather Alerts
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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