Thunderstorm Alert for Residents in Newberry, SC

Thunderstorm Alert for Residents in Newberry, SC

Hey there, folks of Newberry! At around 7:18 a.m. this morning, the National Weather Service (NWS) issued an urgent weather alert you should definitely pay attention to. We’re facing some intense thunderstorms that are expected to last until about 8:15 a.m. These storms are packing a punch, with wind gusts that could reach up to 50 mph, so it’s best to stay alert and keep safe!

What’s Happening?

According to the NWS, Doppler radar has identified strong thunderstorms stretching across a line from 8 miles east of Lake Greenwood State Park to 7 miles southwest of the Ninety Six Historic Site. This storm is moving quickly to the east at about 55 mph. So, it’s advancing, and we might see it in your neighborhood sooner than you think!

Where is this Storm Hitting?

Areas affected by this alert include many familiar spots like Newberry, Saluda, Prosperity, and even the lovely Newberry College. Additional locations on the radar include:

• Newberry County Airport
• Dreher Island State Park
• Lake Greenwood
• Little Mountain
• Pomaria
• Silverstreet
• Peak
• Saluda Co Sheriff’s Office
• US-176
• SC-34 Crossroads
• Good Hope
• Belfast Wildlife Management Area
• Hollywood Elementary School
• Emory
• Chappells Fire Station
• Delmar
• Stoney Hill
• Interstate 26 (between mile markers 66 and 89)

Remember, if you’re outdoors, now is the time to seek shelter inside! As this storm rolls in, lightning becomes a serious concern. Did you know that lightning strikes the U.S. about 25 million times each year? That’s staggering! Most strikes occur in summer, sadly leading to around 20 fatalities each year. The best advice is to stay indoors during a thunderstorm where you are safe from both wind and lightning.

Staying Secure During Thunderstorms

If you find yourself without a place to take shelter, there are some important things to keep in mind:

• Stay away from windows to avoid any flying debris.
• If you’re driving, pull over and stop where it’s safe until the storm passes. Remember, never try to outrun a storm!
• Keep away from electrical appliances and wired devices to stay safe from lightning strikes.

Watch Out for Hydroplaning!

As the rain starts to swell on the roads, it’s vital to be aware of another danger: hydroplaning. This occurs when your vehicle slides uncontrollably on wet roads, caused by water in front of your tires building up too quickly. Essentially, the water pressure can lift the vehicle, leading to a slippery situation. The top three contributors to hydroplaning are:

1. Speed – Driving fast on wet surfaces is a big no-no.
2. Tire conditions – Worn tires can lose traction easily.
3. Water depth – Even just a little bit of standing water can be troublesome.

If your vehicle starts to hydroplane, the best response is to stay calm. Ease off the accelerator, avoid sudden moves, and gently steer your way back to where the tire can regain traction.

Wrapping Up

So, Newberry friends, this storm is serious, and your safety is important. Follow the precautions, stay informed, and let’s get through this weather together. Stay safe out there!