News Summary
Residents of York and Chester counties in South Carolina are on alert as the National Weather Service issues a Severe Thunderstorm Alert. Thunderstorms are expected to bring winds gusting up to 40 mph, hail, and potential hazards. Nearby areas, including Rock Hill, should take precautions as storm systems move quickly, creating risks of lightning, flooding, and travel difficulties. Authorities are urging residents to stay informed and prepared as the weather intensifies.
Severe Thunderstorm Alert in South Carolina
Residents of York and Chester counties in South Carolina are advised to take precautions as the National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Alert. Following a report released at 3:17 p.m. on Friday, thunderstorms could persist until 4 p.m., bringing with them strong winds and even some hail!
Weather Warnings in Effect
This alert comes with a serious warning that gusts could reach up to 40 mph, which means that not only can you expect some blustery moments, but gusty winds might also bring tree limbs crashing to the ground and send unsecured objects flying. If you’re near the areas of Rock Hill, Mcconnells, Lowrys, or Bullock Creek, it’s time to hunker down and stay safe!
Thunderstorm Movement
As of 3:17 p.m., Doppler radar tracked strong thunderstorms located around 9 miles northwest of Chester, moving east at approximately 20 mph. Brace yourselves because minor hail, about 0.25 inches in diameter, could lead to some minor damages to outdoor items.
Safety Measures
If you’re outside when this storm strikes, make sure you seek shelter inside a building immediately. Remember, lightning is a major threat during thunderstorms, striking the U.S. around 25 million times a year. The risk of lightning increases as the storm approaches and peaks during the storm itself!
Upcoming Severe Weather
But wait, that’s not all! Another alert was issued on Saturday at 8:54 p.m., covering Cherokee, York, Union, Chester, and Spartanburg counties. These storms are expected to continue producing wind gusts of up to 40 mph as they move quickly northeast at speeds of around 40 mph. Cities that should stay on high alert during this time include Shelby, Gaffney, Union, Chester, York, Kings Mountain, Boiling Springs NC, Pacolet, Cowpens, and Monarch Mill.
Stay Prepared
A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is in effect until 11 p.m. for the Upstate South Carolina area. With Hurricane Helene making its way toward the coast, a Tropical Storm Warning has also been activated in several counties, adding to the worries about flooding and travel hazards due to heavy rainfall.
Final Thoughts
Residents are urged to keep an eye on local weather forecasts and prepare for potential power outages, flooding, and difficult travel conditions should the storms intensify. Keep your phones charged, stay tuned to updates, and let’s all hope for a swift end to this tumultuous weather!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Weather Wreaks Havoc in Columbia, South Carolina
Anderson, South Carolina Faces Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Severe Thunderstorm Alerts Issued for South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Alerts Cause Concern in the CSRA
Myrtle Beach Faces Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Rocks Charleston Area
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Orangeburg, Lexington, and Aiken Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Upstate South Carolina
Columbia Braces for Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in Upstate South Carolina
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Severe Weather Update
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- The State: Weather News
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm
- Herald Online: Weather Alerts
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather Impacts
- WCNC: Tornado Warning
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather Warnings
- Charlotte Observer: Weather Alerts
- Google News: Weather Warnings 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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