News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Laurens and Greenwood counties due to strong thunderstorms expected to bring wind gusts of up to 60 mph and potential hail. Residents are advised to take precautions and remain indoors as the storm approaches. Several locations, including Cross Hill and Lake Greenwood, may be affected. Drivers are warned of the dangers of hydroplaning on flooded roadways. The warning is in effect until 8 p.m., and residents should stay tuned for updates.
Laurens, SC – A Severe Thunderstorm Warning has been issued for Laurens and Greenwood counties by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Greenville-Spartanburg, effective until 8 p.m. on Friday. Residents are urged to take precautions as strong thunderstorms are expected to bring wind gusts of up to 60 mph along with potential hail damage.
The alert was updated at 7:28 p.m. after Doppler radar detected a strong thunderstorm just 9 miles south of Laurens, near Waterloo, moving south at 10 mph. The storm is characterized by gusty winds and possible hail, with expected hail measuring approximately 0.25 inches in diameter, the size of a pea.
The severe weather conditions are predicted to affect several locations, including Cross Hill, Waterloo, Lake Greenwood, Coronaca, and Mountville. Residents in these areas should remain indoors and avoid any outdoor activities.
Hazards Associated with the Thunderstorm
The NWS warns that the strong winds may lead to downed tree limbs and unsecured objects being blown around, which can cause minor damage to outdoor furniture or decorations. In addition, the storm is expected to produce torrential rain, which could lead to localized flooding.
Drivers on the road are particularly at risk. The NWS advises against attempting to drive through flooded roadways, as even small amounts of water can hydroplane vehicles, leading to loss of control. Hydroplaning typically happens when a vehicle slides uncontrollably over wet surfaces, exacerbated by three main factors: tire tread depth, water depth, and speed.
Safety Recommendations
For those in outdoor spaces, the NWS strongly recommends seeking immediate shelter inside a building. If shelter is unavailable, staying in a vehicle is advised. People on or near Lake Greenwood should exit the water to seek cover indoors for their safety.
As thunderstorms approach, lightning risk escalates significantly. It is important to note that lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from the core of a thunderstorm. Therefore, if thunder can be heard, individuals are urged to move to a safer location, preferably indoors.
Understanding Thunderstorm Risks
On average, the United States experiences approximately 25 million lightning strikes annually, especially during the summer months. These lightning events contribute to around 20 fatalities each year, highlighting the need for awareness and preparedness during storms.
The alert from the NWS provides critical information on the current weather situation while encouraging caution. The severe thunderstorm warning will remain active until 8 p.m., and residents should stay tuned for further updates. Monitoring local weather reports will also help individuals stay informed about any changes in the storm’s severity or trajectory.
In summary, the combination of strong winds, hail potential, rainfall, and lightning poses serious challenges for residents in Laurens and Greenwood counties. Taking appropriate safety measures is essential to protect oneself and minimize hazards during this severe weather event.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Laurens and Greenwood Counties
Severe Thunderstorm Causes Damage and Disruptions in Greenwood
Community Mourns Loss of Beloved Members Margaret Goodridge and Charley Holtzclaw
Severe Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Laurens and Greenwood
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Laurens and Greenwood Counties
Thunderstorm Alert Issued for Laurens and Greenwood Counties
Multiple Arrests Made in Fatal Shooting at Ware Shoals Dragway
Flash Flood Warning Issued for Abbeville and Greenwood
Flood Warning Issued for South Carolina Counties
Flash Flood Warning Issued for Abbeville and Greenwood Counties
Additional Resources
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Herald Online
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Weather
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Google News: Thunderstorm Warning
- Greenville Online
Author: HERE Greenwood
The GREENWOOD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGreenwood.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Greenwood, Greenwood 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 Festival of Flowers, Greenwood Community Theatre performances, and agricultural showcases at the Greenwood County Fairgrounds. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greenwood Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Greenwood United Ministry, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as FujiFilm Manufacturing and Self Regional Healthcare. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
