News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Darlington and Florence counties, affecting institutions like Francis Marion University and Carolinas Hospital System. Residents are advised to seek shelter and avoid flooded roads as strong thunderstorms produce wind gusts and lightning. The situation remains fluid with potential flooding and risks associated with hydroplaning due to heavy rainfall. Safety measures are crucial as alerts continue through the evening.
Florence, South Carolina – The National Weather Service (NWS) Wilmington NC has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Darlington and Florence counties that will remain in effect until 4 p.m. this Friday. Residents are urged to take precautions as strong thunderstorms are moving through the area.
Radars indicated at 3:26 p.m. that severe thunderstorms stretching from Mars Bluff to near Florence and extending to Timmonsville and Cartersville are currently active, moving southeast at 10 mph. Wind gusts of up to 40 mph are predicted, which could result in falling tree limbs and the displacement of unsecured objects, posing risks to safety and property.
The alert affects many locations including Florence, Timmonsville, Lamar, Quinby, Sardis, Effingham, Mars Bluff, and Cartersville. Significant local institutions impacted by these weather conditions include Francis Marion University and Carolinas Hospital System. Major highways, specifically Interstate 20 between mile markers 126 and 141 and Interstate 95 between mile markers 146 and 175, are also under the advisory.
As lightning is prevalent with these storms, there exists a considerable risk for safety. Every year in the United States, lightning strikes average around 25 million incidences, leading to approximately 20 fatalities. This severe weather poses various threats, including risks associated with hydroplaning when vehicles slide uncontrollably, resulting from water buildup on the roads.
The NWS warns that it is crucial for anyone outdoors to seek immediate shelter inside a building. Residents are especially cautioned against driving through flooded roadways. Flooding can be deceptively dangerous as just 12 inches of fast-moving water can sweep vehicles away, making it essential to follow safety measures closely. Factors contributing to hydroplaning include the water depth, tire tread depth, and driving speed, all of which can create hazardous situations during heavy rain.
The Flood Advisory for Florence County is set to expire at 10:45 p.m., but heavy rainfall has already ended. However, the possibility of isolated showers or thunderstorms could linger into the late evening hours. Residents living in flood-prone areas should relocate to higher ground and are advised to evacuate if directed to do so.
In light of the severe weather conditions, individuals are encouraged to avoid basements or rooms susceptible to flooding, particularly those with electrical equipment that may be submerged. If one finds themselves trapped by moving water, they should seek the highest possible ground and contact emergency services without delay.
The situation remains fluid, with continued efforts from the National Weather Service to monitor and update the public on changing conditions. Community safety remains paramount, and residents are urged to remain vigilant and informed about the storm’s development and its potential impacts.
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Additional Resources
- Herald Online: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- The State: Weather News
- Google Search: Severe Weather Florence SC
- JSON Line: Florence County Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- Google Scholar: Florence County Severe Weather
- Post and Courier: Florence SC Snow Forecast
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- WMBF News: Florence School District Weather Announcement
- Google News: Florence South Carolina
