Newberry County, August 22, 2025
Strong Thunderstorms Sweep Through Newberry County
Newberry, SC – Last night, residents of Newberry County were bracing for the strong thunderstorm that rolled in around 7:01 p.m., as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a weather alert warning of gusty winds and possible hail. The warning advised folks to stay indoors until at least 7:30 p.m. as the storm was packing some wild weather.
According to the NWS, Doppler radar spotted a strong thunderstorm primarily hovering over Newberry College and moving south at a speed of 15 mph. With wind gusts expected to reach up to 50 mph, many were advised to secure loose items outside and take care on roads. The threat of minor damage to outdoor things was certainly a concern for many.
Locations Impacted
The storm was expected to affect several areas, including Newberry, Newberry County Airport, and Pomaria. Other impacted locations included Silverstreet, the Newberry County Detention Center, as well as parts of US-176 and SC-34 Crossroads. If you were traveling on Interstate 26, this alert extended between mile markers 64 and 81.
For residents enjoying their evening, the NWS recommended, “If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.” This was definitely the time to curl up indoors and keep cozy!
Understanding Thunderstorms and Lightning
Thunderstorms can be quite interesting, but they also carry serious risks. Around 25 million lightning strikes hit the United States every year, with most occurring during the summer months. The NWS reports that these strikes account for approximately 20 fatalities annually. To put it simply, as a thunderstorm heads your way, the likelihood of a lightning strike increases, peaking while the storm is directly overhead. And once that storm moves on, the threat lowers, making it crucial to stay alert.
Safety Tips During a Thunderstorm
Staying safe is always a priority during severe weather. If you’re stuck outside and can’t find shelter, here are some friendly tips to remember:
- Stay away from metal objects and tall structures like trees.
- Find a low-lying area, like a ditch, to minimize exposure.
- Avoid using electrical equipment and corded phones.
Moreover, if you’re on the road during a thunderstorm, it’s good to be cautious. Hydroplaning is a major concern, especially when rain is pouring. This happens when a vehicle has trouble navigating wet roads due to a buildup of water in front of the tires. The vehicle can then slide on a thin layer of water, leading to loss of control.
Hydroplaning – What You Should Know
Hydroplaning primarily occurs due to three main factors: the condition of the tires, the speed of the vehicle, and the depth of the water on the road. So if you find yourself hydroplaning, remember to stay calm and ease off the gas. Avoid slamming on the brakes or making sharp turns.
Preparing for these storms and knowing what to do during bad weather can make all the difference. As we wrap up another eventful summer evening here in Newberry, it’s clear that nature always has a few surprises up its sleeve. Stay safe out there, everyone!
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.
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