News Summary
Residents in Newberry and Saluda counties are under a Severe Thunderstorm Warning until 5:15 p.m. Strong thunderstorms with potential wind gusts of up to 50 mph are anticipated. Key locations affected include Newberry, Prosperity, and Newberry College. Travelers on Interstate 26 should exercise caution. The National Weather Service advises residents to seek shelter indoors and avoid outdoor activities. Additionally, warnings about hydroplaning due to wet road conditions are emphasized. Safety recommendations are provided to keep individuals safe during the storm.
Newberry, SC – A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for residents of Newberry and Saluda counties as strong thunderstorms are anticipated until 5:15 p.m. on Tuesday. The National Weather Service (NWS) Columbia SC reported the alert at 4:38 p.m. indicating potential wind gusts of up to 50 mph.
As of the report, Doppler radar was tracking a strong thunderstorm currently over Newberry, moving westward at 15 mph. The storm is expected to produce gusty winds, which can knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects, posing a risk to those outside and on the road.
This weather warning affects several key locations, including:
- Newberry
- Prosperity
- Newberry College
- Newberry County Airport
- Silverstreet
- Stoney Hill
- Newberry County Detention Center
- Scurry Airport
- Bush River Fire Station
- Hickory Grove
- Mid-Carolina High School
- Belfast Wildlife Management Area
Additionally, travelers should be aware that the warning extends to Interstate 26, particularly between mile markers 68 and 80. The NWS advises anyone outside during this time to seek shelter inside a sturdy building to ensure safety from the storm’s impacts.
The alert remains in effect until 5:15 p.m., and residents are urged to stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops. Thunderstorms are known for their potential danger, as an estimated 25 million lightning strikes occur each year in the United States, primarily during the summer months, resulting in approximately 20 fatalities annually.
Safety Recommendations
As thunderstorms approach, the probability of experiencing lightning increases, peaking when the storm is directly overhead. The chance of being struck decreases as the storm moves away. It is crucial for residents to take precautions during this time. Suggestions for staying safe include:
- Seeking shelter indoors if caught outside.
- Avoiding the use of wired electronics.
- Staying away from windows and doors.
- Monitoring weather updates for any changes in alerts.
A Note on Hydroplaning
In addition to lightning hazards, thunderstorms can create wet road conditions, leading to hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when water builds up in front of tires faster than a vehicle’s weight can displace it, resulting in uncontrollable sliding. Drivers should be aware of the three primary causes of hydroplaning:
- Excess water accumulation on the road.
- Speed exceeding manageable levels for wet conditions.
- Worn tires that lack adequate tread.
Understanding the risks associated with sudden thunderstorms and related driving hazards can help keep communities safe. Residents of Newberry and Saluda counties are advised to remain alert and exercise caution as this storm progresses.
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Google Search: Severe thunderstorms South Carolina
- ABC Columbia: Storms to Move Through the Midlands
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorms Impacts
- WLTX: Severe Weather Forecast
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- The State: Weather News
- Google News: Thunderstorms Newberry SC
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.
