Strong Thunderstorms Rumble Through Coastal South Carolina

Strong Thunderstorms Rumble Through Coastal South Carolina

Hey there, folks! If you’re in the beautiful coastal areas of South Carolina, especially around Chatham and Jasper counties, get ready for some stormy weather that’s on its way! Just in, the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an alert this afternoon warning residents about strong thunderstorms that are expected to shake things up until around 5 p.m.

What We Know So Far

As of 4:48 p.m., Doppler radar has detected a strong thunderstorm zooming near Whitemarsh Island, and it’s heading east at a pretty brisk pace of 35 mph. With this storm, we can expect penny-sized hail—yes, that’s 0.75 inches—and wind gusts soaring up to 50 mph! Yikes, right? The NWS cautions that these gusty winds could potentially bring down tree limbs and toss around unsecured objects, causing minor damage. If you have any outdoor decorations or furniture, now might be a good time to batten down the hatches!

Where is the Storm Hitting?

This storm won’t be selective and is set to affect some well-known spots including Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Tybee Island, and even the lovely Fort Pulaski National Monument. Not to mention areas like Wilmington Island, the Bellinger Hill area, Hutchinson Island, and even parts of Downtown Savannah, Midtown Savannah, and Thunderbolt

Stay Informed

It’s crucial to stay updated on the situation as the storms develop. The NWS suggests keeping an ear out for updates on your local news or tuning into NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards. Knowing what’s brewing can help you, your family, and your pets stay safe.

Thunderstorms and Lightning

Now, let’s chat a bit about the risks associated with thunderstorms. Did you know that lightning strikes the United States about 25 million times every year? The bulk of these strikes occur during the summer months, leading to roughly 20 fatalities annually. The odds of lightning hitting close to you skyrocket when a thunderstorm approaches and are at their peak when the storm is directly above. Once the storm passes, the risk decreases significantly.

Staying Safe During a Thunderstorm

If you happen to be out and about during a storm, it’s crucial to find shelter indoors. But hey, what if that’s not an option? Here are some handy tips to keep you safe:

• If you hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning—seek shelter!
• Stay away from windows; they can shatter in strong winds.
• If caught outside, crouch down but don’t lie flat on the ground.
• Avoid using electrical devices, as they can conduct electricity during a storm.

What is Hydroplaning?

With the impending rains, it’s also good to understand what might happen on the roads. Ever heard of hydroplaning? This happens when your vehicle loses traction and begins to slide on wet roads. It’s caused by water in front of the tire building up faster than the weight of the vehicle can push it out of the way. As a result, your car can float on a thin layer of water, making it tough to control.

What to Do if Hydroplaning Occurs

If you find yourself hydroplaning, remember to stay calm! Here’s what to do:

• Don’t slam on the brakes—this could worsen the situation.
• Gently steer in the direction you want the front tires to go.
• Ease off the accelerator until you regain traction.

So there you have it, South Carolina! Stay alert and keep safe as these thunderstorms roll in. We hope everyone finds the storms to be no more than a loud, cozy thunder and a chance to enjoy some indoor time.