The National Weather Service in Charleston issued a thunderstorm warning for Inland Jasper County Thursday at 7:58 p.m., saying radar tracked a strong storm moving east at about 25 mph. The warning was set to remain in effect until 8:30 p.m.
Areas included, timing and hazards
Officials named multiple communities under the warning and identified a short segment of Interstate 95 as potentially affected. The advisory listed Springfield, Rincon, Hardeeville, Guyton, Stillwell, Ebenezer, Purysburgh, Tillman, Pineora and Marlow among locations at risk. The NWS specifically noted I-95 between mile markers 5 and 8 in South Carolina was within the warning area.
"Gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects."
The primary threats from the storm were downburst-level wind gusts, frequent lightning and the usual hazards accompanying convective storms — brief heavy rain, sudden wind shifts and falling debris. The NWS urged residents to monitor broadcasts and NOAA Weather Radio for updates.
Safety guidance
- Move indoors immediately if you hear thunder or see lightning; the risk is greatest when the storm is overhead.
- Secure loose outdoor items and avoid travel if possible during strong gusts that can create hazardous driving conditions, especially on highways such as I-95.
- Avoid using corded phones and plumbing while indoors during lightning; wait at least 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming outdoor activity.
For people who cannot reach an enclosed building, the NWS advises avoiding exposed areas, solitary tall trees and bodies of water. Camping in low ground and spacing out when in groups reduces the risk of a single lightning strike affecting multiple people. Tents provide minimal protection from lightning.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Warning issued | 7:58 p.m. Thursday |
| In effect until | 8:30 p.m. Thursday |
| Storm motion | East at 25 mph |
| Noted hazard | Gusty winds, frequent lightning |
Residents and travelers in the named communities should remain alert for updates from the NWS Charleston office and local media. When severe weather is ongoing, small windows of time can change conditions rapidly; prioritize shelter and avoid unnecessary travel until the threat passes.
