Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Coastal Regions of South Carolina

Thunderstorm Alert for Coastal Areas in South Carolina

Charleston, SC – It’s that time of year again when the summer weather brings a mix of sunshine and thunderstorms, and today is no exception. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an urgent warning for strong thunderstorms affecting Coastal Chatham, Coastal Jasper, and Beaufort County, which is in effect until 5 p.m. While we love a good summer shower, these storms could bring along some unwelcome guests like penny-sized hail and wind gusts hitting up to 50 mph.

What’s Cooking in the Sky?

As of 4:48 p.m., Doppler radar has spotted a strong thunderstorm moved towards us from Whitemarsh Island, moving eastward at about 35 mph. This could cause some serious wind havoc, which means you might want to secure your outdoor furniture or any loose items in your yard before they go joyriding.

Locations to Watch Out For

The affected areas include popular spots such as Hilton Head Island, Bluffton, Tybee Island, and even downtown Savannah. Other areas like Fort Pulaski National Monument, Wilmington Island, and Hutchinson Island may also experience the storm’s impact. So, if you’re in or around these areas, it’s best to keep an eye on that sky!

Getting Prepared

As the warning is in place until 5 p.m., the NWS advises everyone to stay tuned to the local weather updates, including the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards. It’s always better to be safe than sorry! A little preparation can go a long way in keeping you and your loved ones safe.

The Effects of Thunderstorms

Now, let’s take a moment to talk about lightning because this electrifying phenomenon strikes the U.S. about 25 million times each year! The summer months see the majority of these strikes, leading to around 20 fatalities annually, according to the NWS. As a thunderstorm gets closer, the chances of experiencing lightning increase significantly, reaching a peak when the storm is right overhead.

Staying Safe During a Thunderstorm

Here are some friendly reminders to keep in mind for your safety during thunderstorms:

• Always seek indoor shelter, if possible. This is your best bet!
• In case you’re caught outside, avoid tall structures, trees, and open fields.
• If you’re in a vehicle, keep your windows closed and stay off the road if conditions worsen.

What About Hydroplaning?

Now, let’s quickly discuss something everyone should know about travel during storms: hydroplaning. This occurs when your car starts to slide uncontrollably on wet roads. It happens when the water in front of your tire builds up faster than your vehicle’s weight can push it out of the way, creating a thin layer of water that can cause loss of control. To avoid this, keep an eye on the road and *reduce your speed* during heavy rain.

In conclusion, folks, as these thunderstorms roll in, stay alert and stay safe! Follow these tips, and you’ll be prepared to weather the storm.