Severe Thunderstorm Alert for Aiken and Surrounding Areas
Hey, folks! If you’re in Columbia, South Carolina, or the nearby regions, we’ve got some serious weather news for you. This afternoon, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued an updated severe thunderstorm warning that is currently in effect until 5:30 p.m. They’re keeping a close eye on the skies as storms are brewing over Aiken, Calhoun, Lexington, and Orangeburg counties.
What You Need to Know!
So, here’s the scoop. At precisely 5:04 p.m., NWS tracked a severe thunderstorm located about 11 miles southwest of Gaston, or 17 miles south of Red Bank. This storm is moving northeast at around 10 mph and has the potential to unleash some wild weather, including wind gusts of up to 60 mph and hail about the size of a penny—approximately 0.75 inches in diameter.
Not just that, but the strong winds might cause serious damage to trees and powerlines. Some towns that could feel the impact include Swansea, Wagener, North, Pelion, Salley, Neeses, Perry, Woodford, and a couple of airports in the area, so keep your eye on the sky!
Safety Precautions
Your safety is the top priority! The NWS is advising everyone in the storm’s path to take cover. Here’s what they suggest:
- Move to an interior room: It’s best to head to a room on the lowest floor of your building.
- Stay indoors: Continuous lightning is striking with this storm. If you can hear thunder, it’s time to seek shelter!
Did you know lightning is one of nature’s leading killers? With around 25 million lightning strikes happening in the U.S. every year, about 20 of those lead to fatalities. The danger is real, especially as the storm approaches. The chance of getting struck by lightning peaks when the storm is right above you, so stay safe!
Flash Flooding Alert
Additionally, the NWS warned that torrential rainfall is accompanying this storm, which might cause flash flooding. So please, do NOT drive through flooded roadways. You never know how deep the water is, and it’s better to be safe than sorry!
Understanding Hydroplaning
Speaking of driving safely, have you ever heard of hydroplaning? It’s when your vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads. This can happen when water builds up in front of your tires faster than the weight of your car can push it away. In essence, your car can rise on a thin layer of water, and that’s when control is lost!
There are a few key causes of hydroplaning to keep in mind:
- Speed: Driving too fast can increase the chances.
- Tire tread: Worn-out tires can’t efficiently push water away.
- Weather conditions: Heavy rainfall increases the risk significantly.
So, if you ever find yourself hydroplaning, it’s crucial to remain calm, ease off the gas, and steer straight until you feel control returning.
Wrapping Up!
With the severe thunderstorm in the area, it’s essential to stay updated on weather alerts and take the necessary precautions. Stay safe, Collumbians, and let’s all hope this storm passes quickly without too much disruption!
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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