June 28, 2025

Newberry, SC Faces Severe Thunderstorm Warning

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.