Weather Alert: Tornado Watch Issued for Central and Southeast South Carolina

Weather Alert: Tornado Watch Issued for Central and Southeast South Carolina

Good morning, South Carolina! It’s one of those days when Mother Nature is showing her unpredictable side. As we cozy into our Sunday, residents across various counties are on high alert due to a tornado watch that remains in effect until 1 PM EST today. This watch affects 15 counties in central South Carolina and 8 counties in southeast South Carolina. So, grab your cup of coffee, settle in, and let’s break down what this means for you.

Where is the Tornado Watch in Effect?

The affected areas include:

• Aiken
• Bamberg
• Barnwell
• Calhoun
• Chesterfield
• Clarendon
• Fairfield
• Kershaw
• Lancaster
• Lee
• Lexington
• Newberry
• Orangeburg
• Richland
• Sumter

Some cities within these counties include Aiken, Columbia, Sumter, and Lexington. Residents should stay tuned to local weather updates as conditions can change rapidly.

What Can We Expect?

Alongside the tornado watch, folks need to be prepared for some strong thunderstorms marching through the area. Wind gusts could reach up to 50 mph, which is enough to knock over tree limbs and send outdoor items flying. So, if you have been planning a lazy Sunday outside, it might be a good idea to postpone those plans.

In addition to the wind, there’s also a lake wind advisory in place until 6 PM EST. If you’re heading to the lakes in east central Georgia or central South Carolina, be cautious! Winds of 10 to 15 mph with gusts up to 30 mph will be creating rough waves, making it hazardous for small boats. It’s best to keep those sailing adventures for another day!

How to Stay Safe

This is where taking precautions is key. Stay indoors, especially during thunderstorms, and avoid trying to drive through heavy rain. Those of you in mobile homes should have a specific plan on where to head for shelter if things get worse. It’s always best to have a flashlight ready, and keep your phone charged. Remember, your safety comes first!

Keep Monitoring the Situation

Make sure you’re keeping an eye on the updates from local weather stations. Whether it’s TV, radio, or social media, stay informed! The National Weather Service is working hard to keep everyone updated on the current situation, including any possible tornado warnings that could be issued as the day progresses.

Stay Connected with Your Community

As we hunker down for what looks to be a wild weather day, why not use this time to check in on your neighbors? A quick call or text to someone who might need help with their preparations can make a difference. Community spirit shines brightest during tough times, and this is no exception!

In summary, as the skies darken over much of South Carolina, let’s remain vigilant and prepare for whatever weather comes our way. Stay safe, and keep those safety kits handy! After all, this is just another day in the life of our beautiful state, and we’ll weather this storm together.

Author: HERE Lexington