News Summary
Spartanburg County is under a severe thunderstorm alert, with predictions of strong storms bringing pea-sized hail and wind gusts up to 40 mph. Residents are advised to prepare and seek shelter, especially in areas like Harris and Fingerville. The storm poses risks of lightning, downed tree limbs, and hydroplaning for drivers. Safety precautions should be taken as the alert is in effect until 5:15 p.m.
Spartanburg County, South Carolina is facing severe weather today as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm alert. The alert was updated on Thursday at 4:44 p.m. and is expected to last until 5:15 p.m. Meteorologists warn that residents should prepare for strong thunderstorms that may bring pea-sized hail, measuring 0.25 inches, along with wind gusts reaching up to 40 mph.
Doppler radar images indicate that a significant thunderstorm is located approximately 11 miles southwest of Forest City and 6 miles northwest of Chesnee. The storm is currently moving northeast at a speed of 15 mph. The NWS has highlighted areas like Harris and Fingerville as being of particular concern for strong weather conditions.
In addition to hail and high winds, the alert emphasizes the potential for gusty winds to result in downed tree limbs and blowing around unsecured objects. Although no extensive damage is anticipated, there is a possibility for minor damage to outdoor items due to hail and wind. Residents are advised to seek shelter indoors to ensure safety during the storm.
Lightning and Safety Precautions
As thunderstorms approach, the risk of lightning significantly increases. In fact, the United States experiences approximately 25 million lightning strikes each year, primarily during the summer months. Lightning can result in around 20 fatalities annually, according to NWS statistics. When a storm is overhead, the likelihood of lightning reaching the ground is at its highest. As the storm progresses and moves away, this risk diminishes.
For those unable to find immediate indoor shelter during a thunderstorm, it is crucial to take extra precautions. Some suggested safety measures include avoiding open fields, staying away from tall trees, and not using electrical appliances. If one is outside and there’s no shelter available, crouching low to the ground and keeping away from metal objects can minimize the risk during a lightning storm.
Driving Risks and Hydroplaning
Heavy rain associated with these thunderstorms also raises concerns about driving conditions, particularly the risk of hydroplaning. Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle slides uncontrollably on wet roads, caused by the water pressure from the tire pushing up against the surface. While the document does not specify the three top contributors to hydroplaning, it is essential for drivers to take safety measures during adverse weather conditions.
Practicing safe driving includes maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, reducing speed, and avoiding sudden movements. These precautions help to maintain control of the vehicle, especially on slick surfaces caused by rain.
Conclusion
As Spartanburg County braces for significant thunderstorms, residents are encouraged to remain aware of the weather conditions and to take necessary safety measures against potential hazards. The weather alert will remain in effect until 5:15 p.m., providing a crucial window for individuals to seek shelter and prepare for the storm’s impacts.
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Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Severe Weather in Spartanburg County
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Greenville Online: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Google Search: Severe Thunderstorms
- Herald Online: Weather Alert
- Google Scholar: Hydroplaning
- Goupstate: Weather Alert
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lightning
- Myrtle Beach Online: Weather Update
- Google News: Severe Weather Alerts
