July 22, 2025

Severe Thunderstorm Alerts Issued for Charleston Area

News Summary

Severe thunderstorm alerts have been issued for Charleston as an intense weather system approaches, bringing scattered storms throughout the afternoon. Residents in Dorchester and Charleston counties are urged to prepare for strong gusty winds and rain. The National Weather Service warns of possible severe conditions with a likelihood of lightning and deteriorating driving conditions. Additionally, Breeze Airways Flight MX509 was diverted due to thunderstorms, resulting in minor incidents. Residents should stay informed and take safety precautions during these storms.

Charleston, SC – Severe thunderstorm alerts have been issued for the Charleston area as an intense weather system approaches, with scattered thunderstorms expected to increase in frequency throughout the afternoon. The National Weather Service (NWS) has advised residents in Dorchester and Charleston counties that severe storms are likely, potentially causing strong gusty winds. The NWS warning is in effect until 4:30 p.m. on July 21, 2025.

As temperatures in the region are forecasted to reach nearly 90°F today, a 70% chance of rain is predicted in the afternoon, while winds are expected to come from the east-northeast at speeds of 5 to 10 mph. Evening temperatures will drop to a low of 76°F, accompanied by a 60% chance of rain overnight.

Doppler radar revealed a strong storm located around 5 miles north of Delemar Crossroads, which is currently moving slowly across the area. Local communities at risk include Summerville, Knightsville, Clubhouse Crossroads, Canaan, Westoe, Slands Bridge, Slandsville, Cooke Crossroads, and Gettysville. Residents are urged to remain alert and prepared for possible severe conditions.

The risk of lightning is particularly high during thunderstorms, with about 25 million lightning strikes occurring annually across the U.S., primarily in the summer months. Each year, approximately 20 fatalities are attributed to lightning strikes, which peak when a storm is directly overhead. To ensure safety during these storms, people are advised to seek shelter indoors whenever possible.

Driving conditions may also deteriorate due to wet roads. Hydroplaning, characterized by the uncontrollable sliding of a vehicle on flooded surfaces, becomes a significant hazard during heavy rainfall. Key factors influencing hydroplaning include the depth of standing water, the condition of tires, and the speed of the vehicle.

In another instance related to the severe weather, Breeze Airways Flight MX509 experienced a diversion to Charleston International Airport at approximately 9:30 p.m. due to thunderstorms in the area. While on the ground, the tail of the Airbus A220-300 was struck by a nearby ANA Boeing 787-10. Fortunately, all passengers were able to safely deplane, although two individuals were evaluated for minor injuries. A recovery flight successfully returned all passengers to Norfolk by approximately 2:50 a.m. on Saturday. Breeze Airways has since begun an investigation into the incident in partnership with local authorities.

The Tri-County area, which includes Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, and Colleton Counties, faced severe storms earlier in the day. By the morning of July 22, 2025, these storms had moved out of the area.

As conditions continue to change, residents are encouraged to remain vigilant and stay informed through official weather updates. By taking standard safety precautions during storms, high winds and lightning risks can be mitigated. Emergency management officials suggest checking emergency kits, securing loose outdoor items, and avoiding unnecessary travel until the storm passes.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

North Charleston Opens Cooling Center Amid Heatwave
Severe Weather Impacts Millions Across the U.S. This Weekend
South Carolina Eyes Controversial Immigration Model
Severe Flash Flooding Devastates Texas Hill Country
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Charleston and Berkeley Counties
Charleston County Faces Accessibility Challenges for Individuals with Disabilities
Snow Flurries Hit Upstate South Carolina with Winter Hazards
Lightning Strike Injures 20 at Lake Murray Beach
Heat Alerts Across 20 States as Summer Sizzles On
Extreme Heat Dome Blankets Eastern U.S.

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.