Strong Thunderstorms Hit Upstate South Carolina
Residents of Spartanburg, South Carolina, were urged to take caution as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued an alert for strong thunderstorms on Saturday evening. The alert, which was disseminated at 8:54 p.m., warned that thunderstorms were developing in several nearby counties, including Cherokee, York, Union, Chester, and Spartanburg, and would last until about 9:45 p.m.
According to the NWS report, Doppler radar detected strong thunderstorms forming along a line stretching from approximately 11 miles south of Forest City to 8 miles southwest of Gaffney, and extending to 12 miles north of Newberry. This severe weather was moving northeast at a brisk speed of 40 mph, contributing to the alarm.
What to Expect: Wind Gusts and Lightning
The thunderstorm is expected to bring wind gusts of up to 40 mph, prompting concerns that these gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and toss unsecured objects into the air, creating potentially hazardous conditions. Local areas that could feel the impact include Shelby, Gaffney, Union, Chester, York, Kings Mountain, Boiling Springs, Pacolet, Cowpens, and Monarch Mill.
Just a friendly reminder, if you find yourself outdoors during such a storm, it’s best to seek shelter inside a building as soon as possible. The NWS advises that a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains active until 11 p.m. for the Upstate South Carolina region, so let’s stay smart and safe!
Understanding Thunderstorms and Lightning Risks
Interestingly, around 25 million lightning strikes occur in the United States each year, with a majority happening during the hot summer months. The NWS notes that these striking bolts can result in about 20 fatalities annually, which really underlines the importance of storm preparedness.
As thunderstorms approach, the likelihood of lightning strikes increases, peaking when the storm is directly overhead. Afterward, as the storm moves away, the risk decreases significantly. So, keep an ear out for thunder and those flashing lights!
Staying Safe: Thunderstorm Tips
Here are some useful tips to keep you and your loved ones safe during a thunderstorm:
- If you can’t find shelter indoors, avoid open fields and stay away from tall structures.
- Make sure to have emergency supplies handy, including flashlights, extra batteries, and a first aid kit.
- Avoid using corded phones and electrical appliances to reduce the risk of electric shock.
- Stay tuned to weather updates and alerts from reliable sources.
Beware of Hydroplaning!
With such downpours, you might be wondering about driving conditions. Ever heard of hydroplaning? It’s when your car starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads. This happens because water in front of the tire gets pushed up faster than the vehicle’s weight can clear it away, leading your vehicle to ride on a thin layer of water between your tires and the road.
Hydroplaning is commonly caused by a few factors, most notably:
- The depth of water on the road
- Your tire tread quality
- Your vehicle speed
What to Do if You Hydroplane
If you find yourself hydroplaning, follow these steps:
- Stay calm and avoid slamming on the brakes.
- Instead, gently ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go.
- Once you regain traction, cautiously adjust your speed.
As the weather continues to develop, staying informed is key. Take all necessary precautions and stay safe out there, Spartans!
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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