News Summary
Newberry and Fairfield Counties are under a severe thunderstorm warning from the National Weather Service, with risks of marble-sized hail and wind gusts up to 50 mph. Residents are advised to seek shelter and prepare for potential dangers caused by intense winds and hail. Highway conditions are also being monitored as severe weather impacts major routes in the area.
Newberry, SC Faces Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Newberry and Fairfield Counties are currently under a severe thunderstorm warning as issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Columbia SC on Wednesday at 6:53 p.m. The warning is effective until 7:45 p.m. this evening, with residents advised to prepare for marble-sized hail and wind gusts that may reach up to 50 mph.
Current Storm Activity
Doppler radar indicates that the storm extends from near Blackstock to Blair and stretches to about six miles east of Joanna. The system is moving toward the south at a speed of 10 mph. The combination of intense winds and hail poses a risk, as these gusty conditions might lead to the falling of tree limbs and the scattering of unsecured objects in outdoor spaces.
Locations Affected
The thunderstorm warning affects multiple locations in the region, including:
- Newberry
- Winnsboro
- VC Summer Nuclear Station
- Whitmire
- Prosperity
- Jenkinsville
- Newberry College
- Monticello
- Newberry County Airport
- Blair
- Little Mountain
- Pomaria
- Silverstreet
- Peak
- Lebanon Fire Station
- US-176
- SC-34 Crossroads
- Henderson Island
- White Oak
- Enoree Ranger District Office
- Newberry County Detention Center
Highway Conditions
The severe weather is also impacting major highways in the area, particularly:
- Interstate 26 between mile markers 62 and 87
- Interstate 77 between mile markers 42 and 48
Safety Measures Recommended
Residents are urged to seek shelter indoors if they are outdoors during this storm. It is advisable to stay away from windows and avoid using electrical appliances. The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch that will remain in effect until midnight for central South Carolina.
Understanding the Risks
Severe thunderstorms in the United States produce about 25 million lightning strikes every year, which can lead to approximately 20 fatalities annually. The likelihood of being struck by lightning increases as a storm approaches, reaching its peak when the storm is directly overhead.
Additionally, the dangers of driving in such weather should not be overlooked. Hydroplaning, which occurs when a vehicle slides uncontrollably on slick roads due to excess water, can be exacerbated by factors such as water depth, tire tread conditions, and the speed of the vehicle.
Conclusion
Residents of Newberry and Fairfield Counties are encouraged to stay alert and prepared during this severe weather event. By taking the necessary precautions, individuals can ensure their safety as these thunderstorms pass through the region.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued in Aiken and Edgefield Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Aiken and Edgefield Counties
Newberry, SC Issues Severe Weather Alert
Severe Thunderstorms Sweep Through Newberry and Saluda Counties
Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Severe Weather News
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm Preparedness
- WLTX: Severe Weather Forecast
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather Impact
- Myrtle Beach Online: Weather News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
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.
