News Summary
Residents of Spartanburg and Greenwood Counties are advised to prepare for intense thunderstorms, with wind gusts up to 50 mph. The National Weather Service has issued a warning as storms are currently moving into the area. Residents are urged to seek shelter and be cautious of potential tornadoes and lightning. It is also important to be aware of hydroplaning risks while driving. Stay informed and safe during these volatile weather conditions.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Spartanburg and Greenwood Counties
Good morning, Spartanburg and Greenwood! Buckle up, because we’ve got some strong thunderstorms headed your way. An updated report from the National Weather Service (NWS) has been unleashed this morning, warning residents of **_volatile weather conditions_** that may include wind gusts soaring up to 50 miles per hour!
What’s Happening?
As of 6:16 a.m. on March 5, 2025, Southern Spartanburg and Greenwood County residents should expect these **_intense thunderstorms_** to stick around until about 7 a.m. A quick glance at the Doppler radar reveals that potent storms are stretching from near Forest City, NC all the way to around 21 miles south of Greenwood, SC. They’re moving east at a swift pace of 45 miles per hour, so if you haven’t felt the impact yet, it’s coming!
Locations in the Line of Fire
The thunderstorm alert covers various locations including Cross Hill, Lake Greenwood State Park, Gaffney, Cowpens, Enoree, Carlisle, Waterloo, Kingstown, and Thicketty. If you’re in any of these areas, it’s definitely time to stay alert!
Expect Some Serious Wind and Lightning
Those gusty winds are no joke. With the potential to break tree limbs and send **_unsecured items_** flying through the air, it’s a great time to tie down anything that may become a projectile. Alongside that, stay on high alert for lightning! Did you know that in the U.S., there are approximately **_25 million_** lightning strikes each year, mostly during the summer? These storms can lead to an average of 20 fatalities annually, so don’t take lightning lightly.
Time to Seek Shelter!
If you’re outdoors right now, the NWS strongly advises that you seek shelter immediately. **_Remember, being safe is better than being sorry!_** If you hear thunder, that’s your cue to find a safe spot. Ideally, you’ll want to get inside a sturdy building as soon as possible. If you can’t find shelter inside, look for the lowest point in the area, away from trees.
Tornado Potential
Heads up! Conditions are also looking favorable for the possible development of a weak tornado in the area. If you spot a tornado or get a Tornado Warning, be ready to take quick action! It’s essential to stay tuned to local radio or television for updates on the ever-changing situation.
Hydroplaning Woes
For those having to drive in these stormy conditions, here’s a quick heads up about **_hydroplaning_**. This is when a vehicle loses traction on wet roads, caused by water buildup in front of the tires. It can lead to a loss of control, which nobody wants during a storm. The top three contributors to hydroplaning include driving too fast for the conditions, under-inflated tires, and heavy rain pooling on the road. If you find yourself hydroplaning, gently steer in the direction you want to go and avoid slamming the brakes. Keep calm, your safety is the priority!
Keep Your Eyes and Ears Open!
As the storm unfolds, we encourage everyone to stay tuned for updates. These **_strong thunderstorms_** and potential tornado conditions may intensify, so it’s best to remain vigilant. Whether you’re at home, work, or on the road, keep yourself informed and be proactive in protecting yourself and your loved ones. Stay safe, Spartanburg and Greenwood!
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Weather News
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm
- Country Herald: Spring Weather Update
- Google Search: Severe Weather Warnings
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorms
- Weather.com: Spartanburg Weather
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- Post and Courier: Spartanburg Tornado
- Google News: Spartanburg Weather
- WSPA: Tornado Alert in Upstate
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