News Summary
A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for Newberry, Fairfield, Lexington, and Richland Counties in South Carolina. Residents should brace for wind gusts up to 55 mph and heavy rainfall, which may cause localized flooding. The National Weather Service advises those in the affected areas to seek shelter and avoid outdoor activities. Drivers are cautioned against flooded roadways, as hydroplaning can occur. It is essential to stay informed and follow updates from local authorities regarding severe weather developments.
Columbia, South Carolina
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Multiple Counties
The National Weather Service (NWS) in Columbia, South Carolina, has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for several counties, effective until 8 p.m. on Thursday. This alert affects Newberry, Fairfield, Lexington, and Richland Counties, where residents can expect wind gusts up to 55 mph as strong thunderstorms move through the area.
At approximately 7:07 p.m., Doppler radar identified a strong thunderstorm located 7 miles north of Dreher Island State Park and 8 miles southwest of the VC Summer Nuclear Station. The storm is progressing north at a speed of 15 mph. Meteorologists warn that these gusty winds could cause tree limbs to break and may lead to unsecured objects being blown around, posing a risk to personal safety and property.
Locations Impacted
Residents in the following areas should take precautions in response to the weather alert:
– Newberry
– VC Summer Nuclear Station
– Prosperity
– Monticello
– Newberry County Airport
– Jenkinsville
– Blair
– Newberry College
– Chapin
– Little Mountain
– Pomaria
– Peak
– Stoney Hill
– Newberry County Detention Center
– US-176
– SC-34 Crossroads
– Fairview Fire Station
– Henderson Island
– White Rock
– Mid-Carolina High School
– Maybington Fire Station
In addition to these locations, the warning also affects Interstate 26 between mile markers 67 and 96.
Safety Recommendations
Residents are advised to seek shelter indoors, particularly those engaging in outdoor activities. The storm is also bringing significant rainfall, which may lead to localized flooding in areas. Drivers are urged to avoid traversing through flooded roadways, as conditions can quickly become hazardous.
The storm is producing frequent lightning strikes, which can occur up to 10 miles away from the thunderstorm. Annual statistics indicate that around 25 million lightning strikes occur in the United States, primarily during the summer months. While rare, these strikes can result in approximately 20 fatalities each year.
Notably, the likelihood of being struck by lightning is highest as the thunderstorm approaches, peaks when the storm is directly overhead, and then decreases as the storm moves away.
Motorists should also be aware of the risks of hydroplaning, which happens when vehicles slide uncontrollably due to water accumulation on the road surface. The three primary causes of hydroplaning include:
1. Speeding on wet roads.
2. Tread depth on tires being insufficient.
3. Standing water on the roadway causing water to build up in front of tires.
Background Context
This weather alert comes as part of a broader forecast for the region. Severe storms are not unusual during this time of year in South Carolina, and it is crucial for residents to stay informed about weather developments. Communities are encouraged to have emergency plans in place and to understand the risks associated with severe weather events.
As the situation evolves, individuals are reminded to follow updates from the National Weather Service and local authorities to ensure their safety during thunderstorms and potential severe weather.
This news alert was originally published on June 12, 2025, at 6:06 PM.
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Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Island Packet
- Google Search: Severe Weather South Carolina
- WLTX
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorms
- Herald Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Post and Courier
- Google News: Thunderstorm Warnings
