Newberry County, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Severe thunderstorms impacted Newberry County and surrounding areas, causing emergency alerts and significant disruptions. Wind gusts reached 50 mph, resulting in power outages and damaged properties. Emergency services mobilized to restore electricity and ensure public safety as another round of storms is predicted for Sunday.
Newberry – A series of severe thunderstorms struck Newberry County and surrounding areas on Thursday evening, prompting emergency alerts and significant disruptions. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Columbia, South Carolina issued an updated weather alert at 7:01 p.m. for strong thunderstorms, warning that conditions would persist until 7:30 p.m.
The thunderstorms were characterized by wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph and pea-sized hail, measuring approximately 0.25 inches in diameter. Doppler radar tracked a strong storm moving southward over Newberry College at a speed of 15 mph. The NWS cautioned that these gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and displace unsecured objects, which could result in minor property damage.
Areas Affected
Locations impacted by the severe weather included:
- Newberry
- Newberry County Airport
- Newberry College
- Pomaria
- Silverstreet
- Newberry County Detention Center
- US-176
- SC-34 Crossroads
- Belfast Wildlife Management Area
- Chappells Fire Station
- Bush River Fire Station
- Vaughnville
- Enoree Ranger District Office
- Chappells
- Kinards
- Interstate 26 between mile markers 64 and 81
Residents were advised to seek shelter inside buildings if they were outdoors, to ensure their safety during the storm. Statistics indicate that around 25 million lightning strikes occur in the U.S. annually, leading to approximately 20 fatalities per year. The risk of lightning increases significantly as thunderstorms approach.
Power Outages and Emergency Response
The storm system contributed to around 140,000 power outages across South Carolina, predominantly affecting the western half of the state. In Newberry County alone, approximately 6,700 power outages were recorded, coupled with reports of downed trees and power lines. Emergency services, the South Carolina Department of Transportation, and power crews mobilized rapidly in response to the damage and worked to restore electricity in affected areas.
As the storms progressed, they were expected to weaken while moving eastward across South Carolina. However, forecasts warned of another potential round of severe weather on Sunday morning, with additional storms anticipated later in the day. The NWS reiterated the importance of remaining vigilant as threats of severe weather are likely continuing.
Public Safety Information
In addition to strong winds, the storms posed risks related to wet road conditions, which can lead to hydroplaning—an uncontrolled slide that occurs when water accumulates in front of vehicle tires. Drivers are urged to remain cautious and adjust their speed accordingly when traveling during adverse weather conditions.
Summary
This recent weather event serves as a reminder of the power of storms and the importance of preparedness in severe weather situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do during a thunderstorm?
Seek shelter in a sturdy building, avoid windows, and stay away from electrical appliances.
What are the signs of a severe thunderstorm?
Look for dark, ominous clouds, frequent lightning, strong winds, and heavy rainfall.
How can I prepare for a power outage?
Prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and water.
Key Features of the Recent Weather Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Storm Characteristics | Wind gusts up to 50 mph, pea-sized hail |
| Power Outages | Approx. 140,000 statewide, 6,700 in Newberry County |
| Emergency Services Response | Active response from emergency services and power crews |
| Future Weather Forecast | Potential storms expected on Sunday morning |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Road Closures in Newberry County Due to Flooding
Newberry County Faces Road Closures After Severe Overnight Flooding
Severe Storms and Record Flooding Hit Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Newberry Reschedules National Night Out to August 19
Newberry County Faces Severe Thunderstorm Alerts and Possible Tornadoes
Severe Thunderstorms Hit Laurens County
Severe Thunderstorms Lead to Widespread Power Outages in Lowcountry
Fatal Assault in Joanna, South Carolina
Severe Weather Impacts Millions Across the U.S. This Weekend
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Severe Thunderstorms in Newberry County
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- The State: Weather News Updates
- Google Search: Severe Weather Preparedness
- WLTX: South Carolina Power Outages
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather Storms
- ABC Columbia: Upcoming Storms in the Midlands
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Storm
- Weather.com: Today’s Weather in Newberry, SC
- 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.
