News Summary

Severe thunderstorms struck South Carolina, resulting in widespread power outages affecting around 140,000 residents, particularly in the western region. The National Weather Service issued warnings, reporting marble-sized hail and winds up to 50 mph. Emergency services are mobilized to restore electricity in impacted areas, particularly Richland and Lexington counties, while residents are advised to seek shelter due to the risk of further severe weather.

Columbia, South Carolina – Severe Thunderstorms Cause Widespread Power Outages Across the State

Severe thunderstorms swept through South Carolina on Wednesday evening, prompting alerts from the National Weather Service (NWS) and resulting in widespread power outages affecting approximately 140,000 residents, particularly in the western part of the state. The NWS issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Newberry and Fairfield counties, which remains in effect until 7:45 p.m.

The storms are characterized by marble-sized hail measuring 0.5 inches in diameter and wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph, creating conditions ripe for damage. Doppler radar indicated that strong thunderstorms were tracking from near Blackstock to Blair, moving south at a rate of 10 mph. Residents in the storm’s direct path are advised to seek shelter as winds could knock down tree limbs and scatter unsecured outdoor items. Locations under alert include Newberry, Winnsboro, Whitmire, and several others within the vicinity.

Power Outages and Impacted Areas

Richland County reported approximately 16,000 power outages, while Lexington County faced nearly 30,000 outages. Additional outage reports include nearly 2,000 in Fairfield County, over 8,500 in Saluda, and nearly 6,700 in Newberry County. Newberry County officials have confirmed that numerous trees and power lines have succumbed to the severe weather conditions.

Emergency services, along with the South Carolina Department of Transportation and power crews, have been mobilized to respond to the damage and restore service to affected areas. Certain highways, including Interstate 26 and Interstate 77, were impacted in sections where conditions have led to traffic disruptions.

Recommendations for Residents

Residents and those outdoors during the storm are encouraged to seek indoor shelter as thunderstorms pose various risks, including strong winds and lightning. The NWS has declared a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for central South Carolina, valid until midnight, suggesting that additional severe weather may occur as the storm system moves eastward.

Forecasts predict that while the current severe weather may weaken as it heads eastward, another round of thunderstorms is expected to develop by Sunday morning, with the likelihood of more severe weather later in the day.

Background on Thunderstorms and Safety Tips

Each year, approximately 25 million lightning strikes are recorded across the United States, predominantly during the summer months. These storms result in around 20 fatalities annually. As thunderstorms approach, the likelihood of lightning strikes increases, peaking when the storm is directly overhead before waning as it moves away.

In light of the current severe weather situation, the public is urged to exercise caution. Safety recommendations during thunderstorms include avoiding outdoor activities, seeking shelter indoors, and remaining aware of weather alerts issued by local authorities.

As the situation unfolds, staying informed through weather updates will be essential for residents and emergency services involved in storm response efforts.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Severe Thunderstorms Cause Power Outages in Columbia
Newberry, SC Faces Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Newberry and Fairfield Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Newberry Area
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Newberry College Area
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Newberry and Saluda Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Columbia, SC
Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Warnings Issued for Central South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued in Aiken and Edgefield Counties
Newberry, SC Issues Severe Weather Alert

Additional Resources

• Herald Online
• Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
• Myrtle Beach Online
• Google Search: Severe weather South Carolina
• Island Packet
• Google Scholar: Thunderstorms and safety tips
• WLTX
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
• The State
• Google News: Power outages South Carolina

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.