COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Storm Prediction Center has issued a tornado watch for the Midlands, effective through 9 p.m. Thursday. This alert covers multiple counties, including Aiken, Bamberg, Barnwell, Calhoun, Clarendon, Edgefield, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lee, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Orangeburg, Richland, Saluda, and Sumter. The watch extends to the Lowcountry of South Carolina as well.
A tornado watch means tornadoes can develop in or near the affected areas. Now is the time to review your emergency plans, check your supplies, and ensure your safe room is prepared. If a tornado warning is issued or you suspect a tornado is approaching, take immediate action. Early preparation saves lives.
Already, the National Weather Service has confirmed a tornado that was located seven miles northwest of Edisto Gardens, or about seven miles northwest of Orangeburg. Officials have not yet said if it caused damage.
If a tornado warning is issued, it means a tornado has been spotted or detected on radar, signaling an immediate threat. Go to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building, and stay away from windows. If you’re in a mobile home, vehicle, or outdoors, seek the nearest sturdy shelter and protect yourself from flying debris. These warnings focus on smaller areas, such as cities or counties, and occur when radar or a trained spotter confirms a tornado.
In the event of a tornado emergency, the highest alert level from the National Weather Service, a violent tornado is on the ground and poses a life-threatening risk. Catastrophic damage is expected. Seek shelter immediately in the safest location possible and contact loved ones within the affected area. If you see a tornado approaching, do not attempt to escape by vehicle shelter in place. After securing your safety, stay updated by monitoring local forecasts for further information.