News Summary
Residents in Newberry and Lexington counties in South Carolina are under a strong thunderstorm alert, expecting wind gusts up to 50 mph and penny-sized hail. The National Weather Service has issued warnings and advised residents to take safety precautions. Thunderstorms are affecting several areas, including Interstate 26, with additional weather alerts expected as conditions may escalate. While the storms pose risks for power outages and downed trees, forecasts indicate a potential break in the weather by Monday night.
Strong Thunderstorm Alerts Hit South Carolina
Warning Issued for Newberry and Lexington Counties
Residents of South Carolina, especially those in Newberry and Lexington counties, should brace themselves as the National Weather Service has issued a weather alert for strong thunderstorms. The alert went out at 8:54 p.m. on Wednesday and will remain in effect until 9:45 p.m. Local folks can expect wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph and penny-sized hail measuring around 0.75 inches. Yikes!
These storms were reportedly spotted near the scenic Dreher Island State Park, located about nine miles northwest of Highway 6 at Lake Murray Dam, and are moving northwest at a leisurely pace of five miles per hour. However, don’t let that slow pace fool you—these thunderstorms can still be fierce. Gusty winds may lead to downed tree limbs and move unsecured outdoor items, possibly causing minor damage.
Residents in places like Chapin, Melvin Park, and Little Mountain, as well as those traveling along Interstate 26 near mile marker 88, are in the path of this stormy system. Those near Chapin may want to take note—dime-sized hail was spotted there, so secure your cars if you can!
Taking Safety Precautions
With thunderstorms looming, the National Weather Service advises anyone outside to find shelter indoors immediately. Thunderstorms are no joke—the U.S. sees about 25 million lightning strikes each year, mainly in the summer months. Unfortunately, around 20 people die from lightning-related incidents annually, so taking cover is essential.
If you’re unable to get indoors, the NWS provided some safety tips to keep in mind during such weather. You don’t want to be caught in a dangerous situation, so be smart and stay safe.
New Alerts Follow
Fast forward to Thursday, and alert levels are still high! At 4:25 p.m., another weather advisory was released, this time stretching across Richland, Sumter, Calhoun, and Clarendon counties until 5:15 p.m. During this period, expect similar threats: wind gusts up to 50 mph and marble-sized hail measuring 0.5 inches. The Doppler radar has even tracked these intense storms stretching from the picturesque Poinsett State Park to six miles northwest of Elloree, moving east at about 20 mph.
Residents across areas like Pinewood, Rimini, and Sumter are reminded to stay plugged into local weather updates. Conditions are unpredictable and may escalate, so it’s wise to keep your ears open.
Looking Ahead
On the brighter side, forecasts indicate a much-needed break from this turbulent weather by Monday night as a cold front pushes through. Expect a mix of sun and clouds on Tuesday, with temperatures peaking in the upper 70s and inching toward 90 degrees later in the week.
However, don’t let your guard down just yet! The Midlands might see another wave of intense weather on Monday afternoon, with predictions of severe thunderstorms rated at an enhanced ‘3/5 Risk’. This could mean damaging winds, hail, and possibly even a few tornadoes between 2 PM and 7 PM. Early hours of the morning could see the storm system entering South Carolina around 3 a.m., impacting the Upstate first before spreading east.
Residents are advised to prepare for wind gusts that may exceed 65 mph, posing risks for power outages and downed trees. It’s time to secure those outdoor items and be ready for anything!
With moderate drought conditions lingering, there’s also a fire risk in play. High winds combined with low humidity levels have officials reminding everyone that a statewide burn ban is active, which includes outdoor grilling and campfires.
So, keep safe and stay informed about the ever-changing weather in South Carolina.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorms Hit Newberry and Lexington Counties
Stormy Weather Hits Columbia, SC
Severe Thunderstorm Alert for Newberry County, SC
Severe Weather Hits Columbia: Tornado and Thunderstorm Warnings
Tragic Incident in Greenville: Young Woman Shot by Deputies
Deadly Storm System Devastates Midwest and Southeast
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued in Columbia, SC
Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Warnings Hit Columbia, SC
Severe Weather Hits Columbia, South Carolina
Severe Weather Alerts Across Central U.S. as Spring Storm Arrives
Additional Resources
- The State: Thunderstorm Alerts
- Wikipedia: Weather Warning
- WISTV: Severe Storm Threat
- Google Search: Severe Weather Alerts
- WLTX: Severe Storm Potential
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- The State: Weather News
- Google News: South Carolina Weather
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry 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 Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. 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.
