News Summary

A severe thunderstorm alert has been issued for Aiken and Barnwell counties, with potential wind gusts up to 50 mph. Scattered thunderstorms are forecasted with a significant 70% chance of rain. Residents are urged to remain vigilant as previous storms have caused damage and power outages in the area. Despite the severe weather, community events are still scheduled, providing locals with various activities to engage in while maintaining safety precautions.

Aiken, SC – A severe thunderstorm alert has been issued for Aiken and Barnwell counties, with the National Weather Service warning residents about potential wind gusts reaching up to 50 mph. Scattered thunderstorms are expected to develop throughout the morning and become more widespread in the afternoon, heightening safety concerns for local community events and residents.

The high temperature is projected to reach 89°F, with south-southwest winds of 5 to 10 mph. The chance of rain stands at a significant 70%, while cloud cover is expected to result in cooler evening temperatures of around 71°F, accompanied by a late evening chance of rain at 30%.

Forecasts indicate that these storms may impact various locations, particularly North Augusta and Barnwell. The severe weather follows previous storms that have already resulted in damage across Aiken County, with blocked roads and widespread power outages affecting thousands of residents. During recent storms in nearby Banks County, GA, a fatality was reported when a tree fell on a vehicle. Authorities urge local citizens to remain vigilant and prepare for possible disruptions.

Despite the severe weather forecasts, several community events are scheduled to take place across the Aiken area. These events offer residents an opportunity to engage in various activities:

Community Events Scheduled

• Didgeridoo Down Under: On Wednesday, July 9th, the Jackson Branch Library will hold a program at 2:30 p.m. aimed at children in rising 5K to fifth grade.
• ACBL Bridge Game: The Lessie B. Price Aiken Senior and Youth Center hosts bridge games at 1 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays.
• Super Man Day: A celebration of the iconic character is planned for 6 p.m. on Friday, July 11th, at the Nancy Carson Library.
• Summer Splash Pool Bash: Scheduled for Saturday, July 12th, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Smith-Hazel Recreation Center, this event will feature a DJ, food trucks, and outdoor fun.
• Peach Festival: Also on Saturday, July 12th, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Cold Creek Nurseries will host a festival celebrating local peaches with live music and food trucks.
• Back to School Extravaganza: This event at Laili’s Beauty Salon will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, July 12th, aimed at assisting children with school supplies.
• Savannah River Stringband: For those interested in playing acoustic instruments, a meeting is planned for Monday, July 21st, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church.
• 50th Anniversary Celebration: The H. Odell Weeks Activities Center will celebrate its 50th anniversary on Saturday, July 26th, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Aiken residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather conditions, especially with the potential for severe thunderstorms impacting the region. While the community remains engaged in scheduled events, safety remains a priority as the forecast develops. Residents should prepare for possible disruptions as thunderstorms move through the area, and heed local advisories as needed.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Aiken Weather Alert: Severe Thunderstorms Expected
Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes Impact South Carolina
Aiken County Prepares for Upcoming Summer Events
Severe Thunderstorms and Tornado Impact South Carolina
Tropical Storm Chantal Threatens South Carolina with Heavy Rain
Tropical Storm Chantal Hits the Southeast U.S. Coast
Lake Wind Advisory Issued for Aiken Area
Aiken Prepares for Fourth of July with Extended Barbecue Hours
Gardening Safety Tips for Summer Heat
Tropical Storm Helene Causes Destruction in North Augusta

Additional Resources

• Island Packet
• Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
• WRDW
• Google Search: Severe Weather Impact
• Myrtle Beach Online
• Google Scholar: Thunderstorm Damage
• Augusta Chronicle
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado
• The State
• Google News: Tornado Warnings

Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN

The AIKEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAiken.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Aiken, Aiken County, 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 Aiken Horse Show, Aiken Bluegrass Festival, and polo matches at Whitney Field. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Aiken Chamber of Commerce and the Aiken County Historical Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as Bridgestone and the Aiken County Visitors 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.