News Summary
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Greenville and Spartanburg counties by the National Weather Service. Residents should prepare for hazards like marble-sized hail and winds up to 50 mph. The storm, located northeast of downtown Greenville, is tracking east at 15 mph. Affected areas include Greer, Duncan, and Lyman. Residents are advised to stay indoors and be aware of potential lightning risks and hydroplaning on wet roads. Previous storm alerts had already warned of high winds and flooding earlier in the day, highlighting the importance of weather preparedness.
Greenville, SC
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Greenville and Spartanburg counties by the National Weather Service (NWS) as of 8:19 p.m. on Saturday. The alert remains in effect until 9 p.m., prompting residents to prepare for potential hazards including marble-sized hail and wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph.
As of 8:18 p.m., Doppler radar detected a strong thunderstorm located approximately 12 miles northeast of downtown Greenville, near Lake Robinson. The storm is tracking eastward at a speed of 15 mph. Wind gusts from the storm may lead to the downing of tree limbs and the movement of unsecured objects, while minor hail damage to outdoor items is also possible.
Areas that may be affected by this severe thunderstorm include Greer, Duncan, Lyman, and Lake Robinson. Residents are urged to stay indoors during the storm and seek shelter in a building if they are outside.
Hazardous Conditions
The NWS warns that thunderstorms can produce dangerous conditions. One major concern is the risk of lightning, which strikes the U.S. approximately 25 million times annually, primarily during the summer months. These strikes cause around 20 fatalities each year. The likelihood of lightning increases significantly as a storm approaches, peaking when it is directly overhead.
In addition to lightning, another potential hazard is hydroplaning, which occurs when a vehicle slides uncontrollably on wet roads. This loss of control can happen when water builds up in front of the tires, creating a thin layer that lifts the vehicle from the pavement. Caution is advised for drivers during thunderstorms, particularly to avoid driving through flooded areas.
Previous Alerts
This is not the first thunderstorm warning issued this weekend. Earlier on Saturday at 12:40 a.m., the NWS had already issued alerts for high winds and potential flooding in Laurens, Greenville, and Spartanburg counties, affecting locations such as Mauldin and Simpsonville. The prior storm warning indicated possible winds of up to 60 mph and quarter-sized hail.
Safety Recommendations
As adverse weather conditions approach, individuals are encouraged to take safety precautions. Staying indoors is the best option during a thunderstorm. Those who must be outdoors should monitor the weather closely and be prepared for sudden changes. The NWS advises residents to report any significant weather events to help with monitoring and response efforts.
This alert serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness during severe weather. Residents should always stay informed about the weather, follow local guidelines for safety, and have an emergency plan in place.
As thunderstorms can happen with little warning, it is essential to be aware of the current weather conditions and take appropriate actions to ensure personal safety and the safety of others.
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Additional Resources
- Greenville Online: Weather Alert
- Fox Carolina: Tornado Warning
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Google Search: Severe Weather Alerts
