Strong thunderstorms strike Upstate South Carolina early Sunday
In the early hours of Sunday, June 15, a severe weather alert was issued for Upstate South Carolina, specifically targeting Greenville, Laurens, and Spartanburg counties. The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg released the warning at 12:40 a.m., valid until 1:15 a.m., citing the risk of damaging thunderstorms and wind gusts peaking at 50 mph (80 km/h).
According to Doppler radar, the line of storms was observed moving north at 20 mph (32 km/h), stretching from about 16 miles southeast of Downtown Greenville to approximately 11 miles north of Laurens.
Areas impacted by the alert
Communities potentially affected by these fast-moving storms include:
Greenville, Mauldin, Simpsonville, Five Forks, Fountain Inn, Woodruff, Reidville, Moore, and Croft State Park. These zones are currently under heightened risk for downed tree limbs, blown unsecured items, and localized flash flooding due to torrential rain accompanying the system.
Severe thunderstorm safety reminders
The National Weather Service emphasizes that if you are outdoors, it is strongly advised to seek shelter inside a secure building. Due to heavy rainfall, urban and low-lying areas may experience flash flooding, which poses serious dangers to motorists and pedestrians alike. Flooded roadways should never be crossed, as even shallow moving water can become a deadly hazard.
Lightning danger: safety precautions
The risk of lightning strikes increases significantly during storms like these. The United States averages 25 million lightning strikes per year, with about 20 fatalities annually.
To reduce the danger of being struck:
Stay indoors and away from corded phones, electrical appliances, plumbing, and windows. Once inside, wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunderclap before going back outside.
If indoor shelter is not available, avoid open fields, hilltops, isolated tall trees, and metal structures. Spread out if in a group and seek low-lying areas like ravines for temporary shelter. Tents, while useful for rain, offer no protection against lightning.
Driving hazards: rain and hydroplaning
Heavy rainfall in Upstate South Carolina can create hazardous driving conditions, especially during nighttime.
Drivers should:
Use headlights, even during daylight hours, to improve visibility. Stick to middle lanes where water is less likely to pool, and avoid road edges. Stay away from standing water, which can cause vehicles to hydroplane or stall.
If hydroplaning occurs—when the tires lose grip due to a thin layer of water between them and the road—ease off the accelerator, gently turn into the skid, and allow the tires to regain traction. Avoid slamming the brakes unless your vehicle is equipped with anti-lock systems.
This alert remains active until 1:15 a.m. Eastern Time, and all residents in the affected counties are urged to remain alert, indoors, and away from potential weather-related hazards.
