Severe Weather Warning Issued for Wednesday as Strong System Approaches
On Wednesday, anticipate severe weather with an Enhanced Risk for damaging winds, potential tornadoes, and quarter-sized hail across several counties. The primary concern lies between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Wind gusts are expected to reach up to 70 miles per hour inside storms, while rainfall forecasts indicate beneficial amounts for drought-affected areas. Residents are urged to stay informed through various warning channels.
On Wednesday, the Weather Authority Team has declared a WEATHER AWARE DAY due to a strong weather system approaching from the west, bringing potential severe conditions. The Storm Prediction Center categorized the Pee Dee, Grand Strand, and Border Belt regions under an Enhanced Risk, indicating a level 3 out of 5 for severe weather primarily associated with damaging winds and the possibility of isolated tornadoes and quarter-sized hail.
The severe weather risk spans multiple counties including Robeson, Scotland, Darlington, Florence, Williamsburg, Dillon, Marlboro, Marion, Georgetown, Horry, and Columbus, with forecasts indicating the potential for damaging winds, tornado activity, and hail. Wind gusts may reach up to 50 miles per hour outside of storms, while within thunderstorms, gusts could escalate to 60-70 miles per hour.
A strong southerly airflow is expected prior to storms, shifting to variable winds during the storms, and then transitioning to westerly and northwesterly behind the storms. Given the moisture present in the area, fire hazards from these winds appear limited, although smoke may remain less dense due to the wind dispersing it across regions.
The most significant timeframe for severe weather on Wednesday is projected between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. Storms will approach in a linear formation, initially weaker in the Southern Appalachians, strengthening as they progress through the Midlands and Piedmont, becoming substantial as they reach areas like the western Pee Dee by around 9 a.m.
Tornado risks exist but may not be visually detectable due to the rain, hence the importance of receiving timely warnings. Inland areas should focus on the timeframe of 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., while Grand Strand communities should be alert from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Rainfall estimates suggest totals of 0.50″ to 1.00″, beneficial amidst ongoing drought conditions.
Citizens are advised to have multiple channels to receive weather warnings on Wednesday. The Weather Authority Team will closely track this system into Wednesday, providing the latest updates. For further information, the ‘WPDE WX’ App is available for download.
In summary, severe weather is anticipated on Wednesday, with a specific risk for damaging winds and tornadoes affecting various counties. The most severe impacts are likely between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., with significant wind gusts and potential precipitation beneficial for drought conditions. Public awareness and preparation for emergency warnings are crucial in ensuring safety during this weather system.
Original Source: wpde.com
