Strong Thunderstorms Hit Columbia, SC
Columbia, SC—If you’ve been enjoying the beautiful weather lately, you might want to grab an umbrella and head indoors! The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an updated weather alert tonight, warning residents of strong thunderstorms expected to last until 9:45 p.m. The alert affects areas in Newberry and Lexington counties, including Chapin, Melvin Park, and Little Mountain.
What to Expect
As of 8:54 p.m., forecasters are tracking a strong thunderstorm just 9 miles northwest of Highway 6 at Lake Murray Dam, specifically near Dreher Island State Park. It’s moving northwest at a slow pace of 5 mph. Residents in the area should brace for wind gusts up to 50 mph and the potential for penny-sized hail (about 0.75 inches). To add to the suspense, reports of dime-sized hail have already come in from near Chapin!
Possible Hazards
The storm’s strong winds could be troublesome. The NWS warns that gusty conditions might knock down tree limbs and send unsecured items flying, which could lead to minor damage. If you have outdoor furniture, it might be a good idea to secure those items before the storm hits hard. Additionally, anyone planning to travel on Interstate 26 near mile marker 88 should be cautious as the weather can change rapidly.
Stay Safe!
With thunderstorms comes the risk of lightning, which strikes the U.S. around 25 million times each year. Most incidents occur during the summer months, and tragically, around 20 fatalities can be linked to lightning each year. The risk of being struck increases significantly as the storm approaches, peaking when it’s directly overhead. When it starts to move away, the risk drops considerably. So, if you hear thunder while outdoors, it’s best to seek shelter inside a building immediately!
Hydroplaning Alert
While we’re on the subject of weather, let’s talk about something important—hydroplaning. This occurs when your vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads. It happens when water accumulates in front of a tire faster than your car can push it away, causing the vehicle to rise and glide on a thin layer of water. The three main factors contributing to hydroplaning are:
- Speed of the vehicle
- Depth of standing water
- Tire tread depth
If you find yourself hydroplaning, try to stay calm and remember these tips: Don’t slam on the brakes! Instead, ease off the accelerator and steer in the direction you want to go. This will help maintain control.
Wrap-Up
Keep an eye on the weather, ensure your safety, and if you see those dark clouds rolling in, think twice about heading outside—your safety is the top priority! These storms will pass, but they can pack a punch, so be prepared. Stay tuned for real-time updates and local stories, and let’s weather this storm together!
Mays Contracting
