News Summary
A severe thunderstorm warning is in effect for Spartanburg and Cherokee counties as the National Weather Service warns of potentially hazardous weather. Forecasts predict wind gusts up to 60 mph and quarter-sized hail. Residents are urged to seek shelter and stay informed about safety protocols during the storm, as meteorologists report severe weather moving eastward at 40 mph. This warning affects several local towns, and the NWS emphasizes preparedness for property and personal safety.
Spartanburg, SC – A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Cherokee and Spartanburg counties as the National Weather Service (NWS) Greenville-Spartanburg SC prepared residents for potentially dangerous weather conditions. The warning, released at 6:37 a.m. on Saturday, is in effect until 7 a.m., with forecasts predicting wind gusts of up to 60 mph and quarter-sized hail measuring approximately 1 inch in diameter.
At the time of the advisory, meteorologists indicated that a severe thunderstorm was reported 12 miles northwest of Spartanburg, near Lake Bowen, and the storm is moving eastward at a speed of 40 mph. Residents in affected areas should be prepared for minor hail damage to vehicles, as well as potential wind damage to trees and power lines.
Specific locations under the storm warning include Cliffside, Cowpens National Battlefield, Lake Bowen, Chesnee, Harris, Spartanburg, Inman, Mayo, USC Upstate, and Green Creek. The NWS is urging individuals in these areas to seek shelter by moving to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building to enhance safety during the storm.
In addition to the severe thunderstorm warning, the NWS has shared general safety information concerning thunderstorms and lightning. Each year, around 25 million lightning strikes occur across the United States, particularly prevalent during the summer months. On average, approximately 20 fatalities are reported annually due to lightning strikes, which are most likely to occur as a thunderstorm approaches, peak when the storm is overhead, and diminish as the storm moves away.
Moreover, residents are encouraged to understand the risks associated with hydroplaning, a hazardous condition where a vehicle slides uncontrollably on wet roads due to water pressure building in front of the tires. The NWS has provided advisories on how to stay safe during thunderstorms and tips for avoiding hydroplaning while driving in wet conditions.
The severe thunderstorm warning was initially issued on Wednesday, May 14, at 6:14 p.m., affecting several counties including Cleveland and Rutherford in North Carolina, as well as Spartanburg and Cherokee counties in South Carolina. For the earlier warning variant, the time frame extends until 7:15 p.m. EDT, with meteorologists previously reporting similar hazards of winds up to 60 mph and hail measuring 1 inch in diameter.
As storms continue to develop, the NWS is asking residents to remain vigilant and report any occurrences of damaging winds, hail, or flooding to local authorities through the designated contact methods. Preparing adequately and understanding the risks posed by severe weather can significantly reduce the likelihood of injury and damage to property. Residents are strongly advised to stay tuned to weather updates and heed official recommendations for safety during thunderstorms.
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Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- GoUpstate
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety
- Charlotte Observer
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorm Preparedness
- Herald Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lightning
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Google News: Severe Weather Alerts
