Severe thunderstorms are expected to impact South Carolina’s Lowcountry tonight, with the biggest threat being damaging wind gusts that could reach up to 70 mph. The storms will continue until 3 a.m. Thursday, with areas like Charleston, Moncks Corner, Walterboro, and Beaufort at risk of significant damage.
Areas Affected by the Storm
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, a line of strong storms is moving in from the northwest, with arrival times ranging from now until early Thursday morning. Communities like Sylvania and Statesboro along I-95 and the Savannah River should expect storms between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. Coastal areas like Hilton Head and Hinesville may see impacts from midnight to 3 a.m.
In addition to damaging winds, the storms may bring quarter-sized hail and frequent cloud-to-ground lightning, which could cause power outages and damage to property.
What to Expect from the Storms
Residents in affected areas should be prepared for damaging wind gusts up to 70 mph. The storms will also bring hail about the size of a quarter and frequent lightning, which could cause power disruptions. The combination of wind and hail could lead to property damage and dangerous conditions for those out in the storm.
Safety Precautions
Residents are advised to take the following precautions: Secure any outdoor items that could be blown away by strong winds. Avoid travel during severe weather, especially when winds and lightning are most intense. Stay indoors and away from windows to reduce the risk of injury from flying debris. Keep a flashlight and extra batteries on hand in case of power outages.
Future Alerts
Warnings and advisories may continue into Thursday morning. It’s important to stay updated on local alerts and NOAA Weather Radio for the latest information. Be prepared for the possibility of severe weather continuing into the early morning hours.
Severe thunderstorms are making their way across the Lowcountry, with damaging winds, hail, and lightning posing risks to Charleston and surrounding areas. Residents are urged to stay inside, avoid travel, and keep an eye on weather alerts overnight. These storms could cause property damage and power disruptions, so it’s important to stay prepared for changing conditions.
