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Severe Storm Warnings Across the Southeast U.S.

A severe storm looms over the city, signaling caution for residents.

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News Summary

The National Weather Service has issued severe thunderstorm warnings for Anderson and Abbeville counties in the Southeast U.S. This Sunday, residents should prepare for wind gusts up to 40 mph and potential hail. The storm system has caused significant damage across the region, including tornado warnings and flooding. Safety precautions are advised as schools close and flight cancellations occur due to the severe weather. Stay updated with local alerts as conditions evolve.

Severe Storm Warnings Across the Southeast U.S.

This Sunday afternoon in Anderson, alarm bells are ringing as the National Weather Service (NWS) Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a thunderstorm warning for Anderson and Abbeville counties. This alert went into effect at 4:01 p.m. and is expected to last until around 4:30 p.m.

What to Expect?

Residents should brace themselves for some wild weather, with wind gusts predicted to reach up to 40 mph and pea-sized hail (about 0.25 inches) possibly tumbling from the sky. Doppler radar has already tracked a strong thunderstorm just 9 miles northeast of Elberton, near the beautiful Russell State Park. This storm is moving northeast at a steady pace of 20 mph.

The rapidly changing weather can lead to downed tree limbs and a few unsecured items blowing around, creating potential minor damage, especially outdoors. Areas affected by the thunderstorm alert include Starr, Russell State Park, Ruckersville, Lowndesville, Rock Branch, Iva, Middleton, Lake Secession, Elberton, and Lake Russell. It’s a good idea to seek shelter inside buildings if you’re outdoors, as this weather front could be quite intense.

Know Before You Go

Did you know that around 25 million lightning strikes occur in the U.S. annually? Unfortunately, this results in about 20 fatalities each year. So, if you hear the thunder rolling, stay indoors as much as possible because the likelihood of lightning increases when the thunderstorm is right above you. Remember, safety first!

Severe Impact Reports

The storm system sweeping through the Southeast has already brought significant destruction. From East Tennessee, reports indicated the presence of tornado warnings issued for several counties on March 15. One tornado was confirmed over Oak Ridge at 8:14 p.m., moving northeast at a rapid 45 mph. This was accompanied by severe thunderstorm warnings with powerful wind gusts predicted to reach up to 60 mph and quarter-sized hail. The area remained under a tornado watch until 1 a.m. on March 16, alongside flood and wind advisories.

As thunderstorms roared across the southern and eastern U.S., people faced devastating consequences, including loss of life, property destruction, and widespread power outages. Residents in tornado warning areas are strongly advised to take immediate shelter due to life-threatening conditions. As a quick reminder, Knox County currently lacks outdoor tornado sirens, which officials consider not cost-effective for indoor alerts. Instead, it’s essential to rely on mobile alerts and weather radios for timely updates.

Local Incidents

A woman in Anderson Township experienced a harrowing moment when a tree collapsed onto her home as storms raged outside, causing structural damage. Similar incidents unfolded across the region as multiple homes faced considerable damage from downed trees. In Erlanger, a tree fell on a house, prompting rescue operations to assist a trapped resident. The heavy rains introduced another threat; Indiana saw heavy rainfall warnings with estimates predicting up to 3 inches of rain, sparking concerns over flooding.

Schools in Anderson have temporarily closed due to the storm damage and ongoing power outages. Flood warnings have been issued in several Indiana counties with river levels on the rise. Central and eastern Indiana are under a tornado watch as multiple severe thunderstorms capable of generating tornadoes loom nearby. Near Indianapolis, downed power lines and trees have caused service disruptions, leading to significant outages.

Stay Safe on the Roads

Flight cancellations and delays have hit both Indianapolis International Airport and Chicago O’Hare due to the severe weather conditions. Additionally, a flood warning has been issued as rivers overflow in Marion County, heavily impacting local residents. People are urged to avoid driving through flooded areas where hidden dangers may lurk. Remember that even moderate floods can sweep away vehicles.

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) provides real-time updates on road conditions through a user-friendly, color-coded interactive map online. So, stay updated and prioritize safety!