Strong thunderstorms rattle Upstate South Carolina counties overnight
Upstate South Carolina residents were jarred awake in the early hours of Saturday, as a severe weather alert was issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) in Greenville-Spartanburg at 12:40 a.m.. The warning covers Greenville, Spartanburg, and Laurens counties, and remains in effect until 1:15 a.m., cautioning the public about thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts up to 50 mph (80 km/h).
At the time of the alert, Doppler radar detected a line of strong thunderstorms stretching from about 16 miles southeast of Greenville Downtown to 11 miles north of Laurens, moving northward at approximately 20 mph (32 km/h). The storms were accompanied by gusty winds that could potentially break tree limbs and displace loose objects outdoors.
Communities under threat from gusts and heavy rain
The alert affects a broad region, including Greenville, Mauldin, Simpsonville, Five Forks, Fountain Inn, Woodruff, Reidville, Moore, and Croft State Park. The NWS urges people in these areas to remain indoors if possible. Torrential rain associated with the storms may also cause localized flooding, adding a layer of hazard for both drivers and pedestrians.
How to stay safe when lightning strikes
Each year, lightning strikes approximately 25 million times across the United States, with summer months being the most active and 20 fatalities on average. As a thunderstorm approaches, the risk of lightning rises, peaking when the storm is directly overhead.
If outdoors, it’s critical to identify a secure location quickly. Once indoors, avoid contact with corded phones, electrical appliances, plumbing, and windows or doors. After the storm passes, wait 30 minutes from the last clap of thunder before going back outside.
If no indoor shelter is available, avoid open areas, hilltops, ridges, and isolated tall trees. Forested areas with low tree cover are preferable. When in a group, maintain distance from others to minimize the risk of a current jumping between individuals. Choose low-lying terrain, such as valleys or ravines, if camping, and stay away from metal objects or bodies of water, which can conduct electricity efficiently.
Driving safely through rain and stormy conditions
For those on the road during a storm:
Use headlights, even during daylight, to improve visibility. Stick to the middle lanes, as water tends to accumulate along the edges. Stay clear of large puddles, as driving through them can cause hydroplaning, leading to loss of control. Keep a safe distance from buses and trucks, which may throw up blinding sprays of water.
Never try to drive through flooded areas. Turn around immediately. Flash floods can sweep away vehicles with alarming speed, and deep water may result in engine and electrical failure.
What is hydroplaning and how to handle it
Hydroplaning occurs when a thin film of water builds up between the tires and the road, reducing traction and making the vehicle slide uncontrollably. It’s typically triggered by a combination of high speed, deep water, and worn tire treads.
If your car begins to hydroplane:
Ease off the accelerator immediately. Steer gently in the direction of the skid to help the tires realign with the road. Once you feel the vehicle regain contact, gradually straighten the wheels and brake gently if needed. If your car is equipped with anti-lock brakes (ABS), use them normally. For older vehicles, lightly pump the brakes instead of slamming them.
Stay alert, stay informed, and stay indoors if possible. This weather alert remains active until 1:15 a.m. Saturday across Greenville, Spartanburg, and Laurens counties.
