Severe Thunderstorms Hit Newberry and Lexington Counties
Newberry, South Carolina – Residents of Newberry and Lexington counties braced for severe weather as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued a weather alert on Wednesday evening. As of 8:54 PM, the NWS warned locals about strong thunderstorms expected to roll through the area until 9:45 PM. The forecast included wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph and the possibility of penny-sized hail, measuring about 0.75 inches.
What to Expect in the Coming Hours
According to the NWS, at 8:53 PM, a significant thunderstorm was detected near Dreher Island State Park, located about 9 miles northwest of Highway 6 at Lake Murray Dam. This storm is currently moving northwest at a steady 5 mph. Residents in the affected areas, which include Chapin, Melvin Park, and Little Mountain, should stay alert. If you’re on Interstate 26 near mile marker 88, keep your wits about you!
Potential Hazards to Keep in Mind
Street reports indicated that dime-sized hail had already made an appearance near Chapin. The NWS advises that if you’re outdoors, it would be wise to seek shelter inside a sturdy building. With gusty winds in the mix, there’s a chance that tree limbs could get knocked down, and unsecured outdoor objects could become airborne, causing minor damage.
The thunderstorm’s presence highlights a larger trend: Lightning strikes the United States roughly 25 million times each year, mostly during the summer months. The NWS notes that these storms are responsible for about 20 fatalities annually. As a storm approaches, the chance of lightning increases significantly, peaking when the storm is directly overhead. It gradually decreases as the storm moves away.
Staying Safe When Thunder Roars
So what can you do to ensure your safety during a thunderstorm? Here are a few handy reminders:
- If you can find indoor shelter, that’s your best bet!
- Stay away from tall objects and open fields.
- Avoid using electrical appliances and anything connected to power lines.
- If you are caught outside with no safe haven, lie flat in a low area and spread your arms and legs to minimize contact with the ground.
Understanding Hydroplaning
Another concern during stormy weather is driving conditions. Hydroplaning can become a significant hazard. This occurs when your vehicle slides uncontrollably on wet roads due to water building up faster than your tires can push it out of the way. If the water pressure is too high, your tires can lose traction, causing you to lose control. Here are a few factors that can lead to hydroplaning:
- Speeding during rain.
- Under-inflated tires.
- Worn-out tread.
In case you find yourself hydroplaning, remember to stay calm, avoid sudden movements, and ease off the accelerator to regain control.
Keep Your Eyes on the Skies
As conditions can change rapidly, it’s essential to stay up-to-date with the latest weather alerts and forecasts. Ensure that you prioritize your safety and that of your loved ones during this tumultuous weather. We’ll continue to watch how the storm unfolds throughout the evening, so stay safe out there, folks!
Mays Contracting
