News Summary
Upstate South Carolina, particularly in Laurens, Greenville, and Spartanburg counties, is facing severe thunderstorms with strong winds and hail. The National Weather Service has issued warnings, urging residents to seek shelter. The storm is expected to bring pea-sized hail and gusts up to 40 mph, with significant risks for downed limbs and minor outdoor damage. Safety precautions are emphasized, especially regarding lightning. Residents are advised to stay indoors and avoid driving during the storm. The warnings remain in effect until 7:30 p.m.
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued Across Upstate South Carolina
If you’re in Upstate South Carolina, particularly around Laurens, Greenville, and Spartanburg counties, get ready for some *unexpected weather*! The National Weather Service released a new report on Monday evening warning residents about strong thunderstorms that are affecting the area right now and will continue through the evening, specifically until 7:30 p.m..
What to Expect?
As the storm rolls through, be prepared for *pea-sized hail* measuring about *0.25 inches*. Also, keep an eye out for gusty winds that could reach up to *40 mph*. Isn’t that a whirlwind of activity? Doppler radar has already tracked a strong thunderstorm about *14 miles northwest of Laurens*, which is approximately *8 miles southwest of Fountain Inn*, and it’s moving northeast at a brisk *35 mph*.
Areas Under Threat
The storm isn’t picky and will likely affect a bunch of areas, including *Fountain Inn, Woodruff, Gray Court, Simpsonville, Five Forks, Fork Shoals, Princeton*, and *Hickory Tavern*. With these strong winds, there’s a very real chance of experiencing downed tree limbs and having unsecured outside items tossed around. Homeowners should definitely keep an eye out for potential minor hail damage to anything left outdoors.
Safety First!
The National Weather Service strongly advises that if you’re outside when the storm hits, it’s best to seek shelter inside a sturdy building. Thunderstorms can pack a punch, and you don’t want to be caught out in the open during such weather!
Lightning Awareness
Speaking of storms, let’s talk a bit about lightning. Did you know that lightning strikes the United States around *25 million times every year*? Most of those strikes happen during the summer months, and they’re responsible for about *20 fatalities annually*. This highlights just how crucial it is to take thunderstorm warnings seriously. The likelihood of experiencing a lightning strike goes up as thunderstorms approach, peaks when the storm is overhead, and then lessens as the storm moves away. It’s definitely something to remember as you prepare for the evening ahead!
Indoor Safety Recommendations
What if you can’t find a sheltered spot indoors? The National Weather Service also shared additional tips for staying safe during thunderstorms. Staying away from windows is wise, and avoiding using corded phones can help keep you out of harm’s way. If you find yourself in a situation where you must drive during the storm, be careful about hydroplaning! This dangerous condition occurs when vehicles lose traction on wet surfaces, leading to sliding that can get out of control. Hydroplaning is primarily caused by a thin layer of rainwater on roadways, so it’s a good idea to slow down and drive cautiously.
Stay Alert!
The warnings remain in effect until 7:30 p.m., so keep your eyes peeled and prepare for whatever the storm might bring. Stay safe out there, Upstate South Carolina, and be sure to check weather updates as the situation develops!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Thunderstorm Alerts in Upstate South Carolina and Georgia
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Greater Pickens and Greenville County
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Impact Greenville and Spartanburg
Additional Resources
- Greenville Online: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety
- Herald Online: Weather Alerts
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorm Warning
- The State: Weather Updates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Independent Mail: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Google News: Thunderstorm News
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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