Severe Weather Alert: Tornado Warning in Edgefield and Saluda

News Summary

A tornado warning has been issued for Edgefield and Saluda Counties due to a severe thunderstorm capable of producing tornadoes. Residents are urged to seek shelter and stay informed as the storm moves rapidly. Local emergency services have provided guidance on safety measures during this critical weather event.

Severe Weather Alert: Tornado Warning Issued for Edgefield and Saluda Counties

Attention residents of Edgefield and Saluda Counties! A tornado warning has been issued this afternoon, and it’s crucial to stay alert and take necessary precautions. At 3:52 p.m. on Monday, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Columbia, South Carolina, updated the tornado warning, which will be in effect until 4 p.m. local time.

What You Need to Know

Currently, a severe thunderstorm, which has the potential to produce a tornado, has been spotted approximately 8 miles northwest of Saluda County Airport. This storm is moving eastward at a swift speed of 45 miles per hour and is located about 19 miles southeast of Greenwood.

The NWS is urging people to be extremely cautious as dangerous flying debris is a significant risk for anyone who is caught outdoors or without proper shelter. This storm may pose threats such as damage to mobile homes, roofs, windows, and vehicles. Additionally, it could cause tree damage as well. So folks, it’s time to take the warning seriously!

Areas Impacted

Here are some key locations that could feel the brunt of this severe weather:

• Emory
• Saluda County Sheriff’s Office
• Scurry Airport
• Good Hope
• Hickory Grove
• Pleasant Lane
• Northside Fire Station Main
• Saluda
• Saluda High School
• Hollywood Elementary School

Residents living in these areas are urged to seek immediate shelter. If you’re outdoors, in a mobile home, or driving, it’s vital to make a beeline for a sturdy building. The safest location is an interior room or closet on the lowest floor of that building. Don’t take any chances!

Stay Informed!

It’s not just about finding cover but also about staying informed. The NWS emphasizes the importance of monitoring local news updates or checking in with your NOAA Weather Radio. Keeping track of tornado watches and warnings could make all the difference. So, don’t forget to keep those devices charged!

Prepare for Any Emergency

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has a gentle reminder for everyone: it’s always a good idea to have a basic disaster supplies kit ready. This kit should include essential items you might need during an emergency, such as food, water, medications, flashlights, and batteries. Being prepared can help ease your mind during uncertain weather conditions.

Wrapping Up

The tornado warning may feel concerning, but by staying informed and taking the right steps to keep yourself and your loved ones safe, you’ll be well-prepared. Immediately act upon this information, and please remember, the warning lasts until 4 p.m., so stay vigilant during these critical hours. Let’s all look out for one another and weather this storm safely together!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Tornado Warning for Edgefield and Saluda Counties: Stay Safe!
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Impact Upstate South Carolina and Georgia
Severe Thunderstorms Rattle the Tri-State Area
Severe Weather Warnings Issued for Columbia and Lexington Counties
Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Warnings Hit Columbia, SC
Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Warnings Hit Columbia
Severe Thunderstorm and Tornado Warnings Issued in Columbia, SC
Severe Weather Hits Columbia, South Carolina
Severe Storm System Causes Widespread Destruction Across States
Tornado Outbreak Causes Heartache and Havoc

Additional Resources

• Island Packet
• WLTX
• WISTV
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather Alerts
• Google News: Tornado Warning South Carolina