Severe Thunderstorm Watch issued for a Southern City
In a surprising turn of weather events, the city of Columbia is under a severe thunderstorm watch that was issued on Friday at 5:47 p.m. According to the National Weather Service, this watch is in effect until 8 p.m. and covers several areas including Bamberg, Barnwell, Calhoun, Clarendon, Lee, Orangeburg, and Sumter counties.
What’s in Store: Thunderstorms and Lightning
During summertime, thunderstorms tend to pop up unannounced, and this particular storm forecast is no different. Did you know that lightning strikes in the United States around 25 million times each year? That’s a staggering number! Alarmingly, these strikes lead to about 20 fatalities annually, with most of these unfortunate incidents occurring in the summer months.
As the storm approaches our area, the likelihood of lightning increases. It reaches its highest intensity when the storm is directly above us. Conversely, as the storm moves away, the risk of lightning decreases. So, it’s crucial to stay alert and informed during these moments!
Stay Safe During Thunderstorms
With that in mind, here are some safety tips to consider if you find yourself facing a thunderstorm. If seeking indoor shelter isn’t an option, here are some pointers:
- Seek low ground: Avoid being at the top of hills or elevated areas.
- Stay away from trees: While they may seem like the nearest shelter, they can attract lightning.
- Do not seek shelter in small structures: Such as picnic shelters or tents; they often provide minimal protection.
- Listen to updates: Keep track of weather updates and advisories.
The Dangers of Hydroplaning
Another hazard associated with thunderstorms is the increased chance of hydroplaning on the roads. Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle loses contact with the road due to a buildup of water in front of its tires. Essentially, the water pressure lifts the tire off the road, causing the vehicle to slide uncontrollably on a thin layer of water.
Three main factors contribute to hydroplaning:
- Speed: The faster you go, the more likely you are to hydroplane.
- Road conditions: Puddles and standing water create ripe conditions for hydroplaning.
- Tire Condition: Worn tires are less effective at channeling water away.
What to Do if You Hydroplane
If you find yourself hydroplaning, here’s a basic guideline:
- Stay calm: Panicking will only make the situation worse.
- Ease off the gas: Slowly take your foot off the accelerator.
- Steer in the direction you want to go: If the rear of the car begins to slide, turn in the direction of the slide.
- Do not brake abruptly: Sudden braking can worsen the skid.
Stay Informed and Safe
With a bit of precaution and knowledge, we can navigate through this stormy weather and keep ourselves safe. Always make sure to check ongoing weather updates and stay protected. Remember, while the weather can be unpredictable, our safety doesn’t have to be!
As the storm approaches, let’s keep our spirits high and stay connected with our community. After all, sharing this information helps us all stay safe!
Mays Contracting
