COLUMBIA, S.C. — While South Carolina can see severe weather year-round March kicks off our more active period that can last well into the summer. National Weather Service Meteorologist Nicole Rebarick says this time of the year is typically our biggest concern.
“We can get into this lull where we don’t see much severe weather, but once Spring comes around, that’s when we see most of our activity when it comes to severe weather.”
Spring is a season of transition. Warm and cool air masses constantly move across the U.S. That causes areas of low pressure to move across the South. The strong winds associated with these systems and the warm air create the perfect environment for rotation, which leads to severe weather.
We saw this on April 5th of last year when one of the largest tornado outbreaks in recent years occurred in our state. More than 14 tornadoes touched down that day including two EF3 tornadoes.
On May 1st we saw hail, another type of severe weather that fell in Lexington county from severe storms that moved through.
Around the July 4th holiday, strong storms caused flooding in the Columbia area including a record-high crest on Rocky Branch.
Out of all types of severe weather flooding is the biggest concern, which is why Nicole says you should take any rising waters, especially on the roads, seriously.
“My family, they own a lot of trucks, and one thing I tell them all the time is you just don’t know how deep any flood water is.”
The most important way you can keep yourself safe from any potential threats is by being informed about future weather threats.
In the case of power going out, experts recommend having an emergency weather radio. You should also have an emergency plan in place including where you should go in the event of imminent severe weather at your home. Also, make an emergency preparedness kit, including first aid, batteries, and any important documents you may need.