Severe Weather Alert: Thunderstorms Loom Over Greenville and Pickens Counties

News Summary

Greenville, SC, is under a severe thunderstorm warning issued by the National Weather Service. Residents are warned of strong winds up to 60 mph and potential flash flooding due to heavy rainfall as Hurricane Helene approaches. The state has declared a state of emergency, with preparations underway. Local agencies are readying for power outages and advising residents to stay safe indoors and check on vulnerable individuals. With significant rainfall expected, the impact of the storm is predicted to be substantial across the Upstate.

Severe Weather Alert: Thunderstorms Loom Over Greenville and Pickens Counties

Greenville, South Carolina, is bracing for a rough morning as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for both Greenville and Pickens counties. The alert came through at 5:15 a.m. today, giving residents a heads-up about what could be a challenging weather situation. This warning is effective until 5:45 a.m., so it’s time to get prepared!

What to Expect from the Storm

If you’re in the area, be ready for some fierce wind gusts that could reach up to 60 mph. As of the latest updates, the severe storm was spotted 6 miles north of Easley and only 5 miles northwest of Berea, moving northeast at around 45 mph. That means this storm is on the move!

The NWS has warned that we could see some damage to trees and power lines. Areas that should be cautious include:

• Paris Mountain State Park
• Tigerville
• Easley
• Dacusville
• Lake Robinson
• West Greenville
• Gowensville
• Greenville Downtown
• Cherrydale Point
• Berea

There’s even a chance that we could experience conditions favorable for a brief, weak tornado. Residents are advised to seek shelter in an interior room away from windows.

Heavy Rain and Flood Risks Ahead

Alongside the winds, expect some brief heavy rainfall. Fortunately, lightning is expected to be minimal, but that rain could lead to some flash flooding. A flood watch has been issued, effective until Friday afternoon, thanks to excessive rainfall expected from Tropical Storm Helene. We’re talking about total rainfall amounts that could range from 5 to 12 inches across various parts of the Upstate.

Just a bit of trivia: Did you know that around 25 million lightning strikes occur in the U.S. every year? They result in about 20 fatalities annually, so safety is important as storm conditions roll in!

The State Takes Precautions

As the winds pick up and rains start pouring, South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency in preparation for Hurricane Helene’s impacts. The state emergency operations plan is in full effect, coordinating efforts among various local agencies to ensure everyone is ready for what’s coming.

The AnMed healthcare system is also on alert, preparing for potential flooding and power outages. It’s vital for people to check on those who might need help, especially the elderly and vulnerable individuals.

Meanwhile, Blue Ridge Electric Cooperative is urging residents to steer clear of any downed power lines and to be ready for possible prolonged outages. With about 8,901 power outages reported in Greenville, not to mention additional outages in Oconee, Pickens, and Spartanburg counties, having a backup plan is more important than ever.

What You Should Do

Classes at Limestone University have been canceled for Thursday and Friday to prioritize student safety amidst severe weather preparedness. Even high school football games initially set for Friday are being rescheduled to Wednesday thanks to safety concerns.

City crews are currently cleaning up from a recent microburst and thunderstorms that already caused substantial power outages and debris in the area. Flash flooding has become an issue as well, with debris affecting roadways.

In light of everything happening, residents are encouraged to keep an eye on local weather forecasts and to prepare emergency supplies. Stay safe out there, Greenville! Keep your loved ones close and your flashlights ready!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Tropical Storm Debby Causes Chaos in South Carolina
Tropical Storm Debby Hits South Carolina: A Community in Crisis
Thunderstorm Alert in Upstate South Carolina: Strong Winds Expected
Greenville Weather Update: Possible Snow Flurries Ahead
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Greenville and Spartanburg
Severe Storm Causes Flooding and Evacuations in Eastern U.S.
Hughes Fire Sparks Evacuations and I-5 Closures in California
Winter Weather Hits Western North Carolina: School Closures and Delays

Additional Resources

• Fox Carolina: Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued
• Myrtle Beach Online: Weather News
• The Weather Channel: Greenville, SC
• Island Packet: Weather News
• Greenville Online: Power Outages in Thunderstorm
• Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
• Google Search: Thunderstorm Safety
• Google Scholar: Thunderstorm
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
• Google News: Thunderstorms in Greenville