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Aiken County, SC, is on high alert as the National Weather Service issues a severe thunderstorm warning until 8 PM. Residents are advised to seek shelter due to anticipated storms producing damaging wind gusts and large hail. With a projected high of 83°F, the area is also recovering from a recent EF1 tornado that caused significant damage. Local authorities emphasize safety precautions amid ongoing severe weather threats, including the risk of lightning and hydroplaning.

Aiken County, SC is bracing for significant thunderstorms, with the National Weather Service (NWS) Columbia, SC, issuing a severe thunderstorm warning effective until 8 PM on June 7. Thunderstorms are anticipated throughout the morning, followed by scattered storms in the afternoon. A high temperature is projected to reach 83°F, while the low temperature is expected to be 69°F. Winds will come from the west-southwest at speeds of 10 to 20 mph.

The NWS has warned that the storms may produce wind gusts up to 60 mph and quarter-sized hail measuring approximately 1 inch in diameter. These extreme conditions could lead to significant damage, particularly to vehicles, trees, and powerlines across the affected regions.

Previously, a severe thunderstorm was reported located 7 miles northeast of Gough or 7 miles northwest of Waynesboro, moving eastward at 25 mph. Key locations within the storm warning zone include Waynesboro, Plant Vogtle, Hephzibah, Jackson, Burke County Airport, McBean, Gough, Blythe, Keysville, and Audubon’s Silver Bluff Sanctuary.

As contained in the warning, residents are advised to seek shelter by moving to an interior room on the lowest floor of their homes or buildings for protection against severe weather. They should remain alert for further updates and instructions from local authorities.

It is important to note that the chance of rain is forecasted at a robust 100%. A few clouds are also expected during the day. Meanwhile, in addition to thunderstorms, residents are grappling with the aftermath of a recent EF1 tornado that struck Langley, SC, earlier on the same day. The tornado hit at 3:26 AM, causing damage to the Langley Fire Department building and nearby structures.

Reports indicate wrecked bay doors and displaced carports, with at least 42 customers without power in the Langley area as of 4:40 PM. These storms are part of a larger trend, with recent thunderstorms leading to record rainfall and flooding in several states, including Florida and South Carolina.

In light of these weather events, local authorities remind residents of the risks posed by lightning, which accounts for approximately 25 million strikes annually across the U.S., primarily in the summer months, resulting in around 20 fatalities each year. They also warn of dangers associated with hydroplaning that can occur when water accumulates in front of vehicle tires, resulting in loss of control.

Additionally, a community concern arises in light of a missing 7-year-old Jack Russell terrier named Russell, who has been unaccounted for since June 1 after chasing a cat down a storm drain. His owners are offering a $5,000 reward for his safe return, highlighting the emotional impact of storms on families and their pets.

As severe weather patterns escalate in Aiken County and throughout the region, residents are urged to stay informed and prepared for potential dangers and interruptions caused by thunderstorms and tornadoes. Keeping abreast of weather updates is crucial to ensuring safety and minimizing damage during turbulent weather conditions.

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Author: hereaiken