Severe Thunderstorm Watch in Columbia, SC
Columbia, SC – Residents in and around Columbia might want to keep an eye on the skies! On Thursday at 4:24 p.m., the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a severe thunderstorm watch that will remain in effect until midnight on Friday. The areas impacted include Chesterfield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lancaster, and Newberry counties.
What’s Happening?
During this time, conditions are ripe for intense thunderstorms. Typically, a storm watch means that there could be severe weather inbound, which might bring heavy rain, high winds, and even lightning. Lightning isn’t just a lightshow—it strikes the U.S. around 25 million times a year! The summer months see the worst of it, resulting in an average of 20 fatalities each year due to these powerful strikes.
As a thunderstorm approaches, the chance of lightning will increase. It peaks when the storm is directly overhead and then starts to decrease as the storm passes. So, if you hear that rumble in the distance, it’s a good idea to start preparing yourself for some stormy weather!
Staying Safe
While it’s always best to find shelter indoors when a thunderstorm hits, sometimes that’s not an option. If you find yourself caught outside, here are some friendly tips to keep safe:
- Seek Shelter: If you notice that a storm is rolling in, try to find a sturdy building to take cover in as soon as possible.
- Avoid Trees: Standing under a tree might seem like a good idea during rain, but they attract lightning.
- Stay Away from Water: Water conducts electricity, so steer clear of lakes or pools during a storm.
Understanding Hydroplaning
Now, let’s chat about another danger that can keep you on your toes during a storm—hydroplaning. Have you ever heard of it? Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle begins to slide uncontrollably on wet roads. It’s a pretty nerve-wracking experience, but knowing what it is can help you stay alert.
This slippery situation occurs when water in front of the tire builds up quicker than the weight of your vehicle can push it out of the way. As a result, your tires end up riding on a thin layer of water between them and the road surface, which makes it tricky to maintain control of your vehicle.
There are three main factors that contribute to hydroplaning:
- Speed: The higher your speed, the greater your risk of hydroplaning.
- Water Depth: Just a small amount of water can cause issues, especially if you’re driving too fast.
- Tire Condition: Worn-out tires can exacerbate the problem, as they won’t grip the road as effectively.
What to Do If You Hydroplane
If you ever find yourself hydroplaning, don’t panic! Here’s what to do:
- Don’t Brake Suddenly: It can cause you to lose control even more. Instead, gently ease off the accelerator.
- Steer Straight: Keep the steering wheel steady; any sudden moves can send you spinning.
- Wait It Out: Once you feel your wheels regain traction, you can slowly start to steer again and slow down.
Final Thoughts
As Columbia braces for some rough weather tonight, remember to stay safe and cautious on the roads. Keep your rain gear handy and your phone charged for updates. Thunderstorms can be fierce, but with a little preparation, you can keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Stay alert and take care out there!
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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