News Summary
Charleston and Berkeley counties are under a severe thunderstorm warning as dangerous weather conditions are expected to last through the evening. The National Weather Service warns of wind gusts up to 60 mph and potential for damage to structures and vegetation. Residents are advised to take shelter indoors and avoid windows, with heavy rain and lightning adding to the risks of flash flooding and fatalities from lightning strikes.
Charleston, SC – A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Charleston and Berkeley counties as residents brace for hazardous weather conditions expected to continue through the evening. The National Weather Service (NWS) updated the warning at 8:01 p.m. on Friday, with the alert remaining in effect until 8:45 p.m.
Residents should prepare for wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph, with severe thunderstorms currently positioned from over Sullivan’s Island to approximately 8 miles south of Kiawah Island, moving southeast at a speed of 25 mph. Potential damage is anticipated from these storms, including destruction of roofs, siding, and trees in the affected areas.
Key areas facing the impact of the warning include North Charleston, Mount Pleasant, Hanahan, Johns Island, James Island, West Ashley, Downtown Charleston, Fort Sumter, and Daniel Island. Major routes impacted by the warning include sections of Interstate 26 between mile markers 214 and 221, and Interstate 526 between mile markers 11 and 17 and 19 and 31.
Safety Precautions
Due to the dangerous conditions, the NWS advises residents to seek shelter indoors and to avoid windows during the storm. The severe thunderstorms are capable of producing damaging winds alongside a significant risk of cloud-to-ground lightning strikes. The NWS emphasizes the need for caution as lightning is a leading cause of fatalities in nature; the presence of thunder indicates the risk of being struck.
Torrential rain is also expected, which can lead to flash flooding. Residents are cautioned against driving through flooded roadways, as the likelihood of hydroplaning increases in such conditions. Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle slides uncontrollably on wet surfaces due to water build-up in front of the tires.
Understanding Thunderstorms and Lightning
The NWS reports that lightning strikes the U.S. approximately 25 million times annually, resulting in an average of around 20 fatalities each year. The risk of lightning tends to peak as a thunderstorm approaches and reaches its maximum intensity when the storm is overhead.
Additional Safety Tips
For those who may not have indoor shelter readily available, the NWS has suggested several safety tips to follow during thunderstorms. It is essential to remain informed about weather conditions and to heed official instructions for safety. Always seek higher ground in the event of flooding and remain vigilant for updates from local authorities regarding road conditions and storm activity.
Conclusion
This severe thunderstorm warning highlights the importance of preparedness and safety in the face of severe weather. Residents of Charleston and Berkeley counties are urged to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property during this intense weather event.
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Live 5 News: Thunderstorm Warning Update
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety Tips
- ABC News 4: Tropical Storm Chantal Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lightning
- Count on 2: Tornado Warning Issued
- Google News: Severe Weather Alerts
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.
