News Summary
Residents in Lexington and Richland counties are under a severe thunderstorm alert as potent storms with wind gusts up to 50 mph and marble-sized hail are expected. Doppler radar indicates strong thunderstorms approaching, prompting warnings for local areas including Columbia, West Columbia, and Irmo. The National Weather Service advises everyone to seek shelter and stay updated on weather conditions, particularly due to the risks of lightning and strong winds. Precautions are necessary, especially for those traveling on major highways.
Severe Thunderstorm Alert in Lexington and Richland Counties!
Hey there, folks! If you’re anywhere near Lexington and Richland counties, you might want to brace yourselves because the weather is getting a bit wild! A report from the National Weather Service in Columbia, SC, came out on Saturday at 2:05 p.m. letting us know about some potent thunderstorms that are expected to roll through until around 2:30 p.m.
What’s Happening?
So, what can you expect? Well, get ready for winds gusting up to a whopping 50 mph and hail that’s roughly the size of marbles, measuring about 0.5 inches in diameter! That’s right, folks—those little icy balls might be coming your way!
Doppler radar showed us that a strong thunderstorm was brewing near Red Bank at 2:04 p.m. and it’s chugging along to the north at a speed of about 30 mph. This storm isn’t just a light sprinkle; it’s really packing a punch!
Where Can You Expect Impact?
The alert covers a range of areas, so if you live around **Columbia**, **Lexington**, **West Columbia**, **Cayce**, **Irmo**, **St. Andrews**, and several others including popular spots like the **Columbia Metro Airport**, **Riverbanks Zoo**, and even parts of **Harbison State Forest**, you should take this seriously.
Watch Your Surroundings
Wind that strong can easily knock down tree limbs and send unsecured items tumbling around, potentially causing minor damage. So, if you’ve got any outdoor décor or furniture sitting on your porch or in the yard, it might be a good idea to bring those inside!
Important Locations and Highways to Keep an Eye On
On the highways, be extra cautious if you’re traveling on **Interstate 126** (between mile markers 0 and 3), **Interstate 20** (between mile markers 47 and 71), and **Interstate 26** (between mile markers 94 and 115). All of these routes might see some difficulties due to the storm. Safe driving is key!
Lightning—A Real Threat!
Besides the wind and hail, let’s talk about the lightning! This storm is giving off frequent cloud-to-ground lightning strikes, and remember, lightning can strike up to 10 miles away from where the rain is falling. That means even if you’re feeling safe at home, you should still exercise caution!
So what should you do? The NWS recommends that everyone seek shelter indoors or, if you’re out and about, get into a vehicle. The storm could ramp up even more, so it’s best to play it safe.
Stay Updated!
Keep your ears open! It’s wise to monitor local radio and television for any updates or maybe even more warnings. This storm could change quickly, and staying informed is your best bet for being prepared.
Did You Know?
Some interesting stats to consider: did you know that there are around 25 million lightning strikes across the U.S. every year? A significant chunk of those happen in the summertime, leading to about 20 fatalities annually. So, when you hear thunder, don’t take it lightly!
Driving Safety Tips
Oh, and while we’re on the topic, if you’re out driving in the rain, beware of hydroplaning! That happens when your vehicle slides uncontrollably on wet roads due to a thin layer of water. It’s essential to drive carefully, especially in stormy conditions.
So, everyone in Lexington and Richland counties, keep an eye on the sky and stay safe indoors while this thunderstorm rolls through. Fingers crossed that you all emerge unscathed with just a good story to tell!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Palmetto Golf Club Hosts 50th Southern Cross Tournament
Aiken Welcomes the 50th Southern Cross Golf Tournament
Columbia Welcomes New Coffee and Pizza Spots
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Hits Columbia: Brace for Wind and Hail!
Severe Weather Set to Hit the Midlands, South Carolina
Warm and Sunny Weather Arrives in Columbia, SC
Columbia Weekend Filled with Food and Festivities
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Columbia, SC
Severe Storms Cause Significant Damage and Power Outages in Columbia, MO
Severe Weather Unleashes Chaos in Columbia, SC on Easter Sunday
Additional Resources
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- Herald Online
- Google Search: Severe Weather in South Carolina
- Kentucky.com
- Google Scholar: Thunderstorm Safety Tips
- Island Packet
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather Safety
- Storyful Video
- Google News: Thunderstorm Alerts
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
Mays Contracting
