As severe weather continues to sweep through parts of the United States, residents are urged to stay vigilant and informed about the ongoing thunderstorms affecting various regions. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple warnings, including for Cleveland and Rutherford counties in North Carolina, where gusty winds and heavy rain are expected.
According to the NWS Greenville-Spartanburg, the severe thunderstorm warning for these counties was prompted by a storm that has since weakened. However, the agency cautioned that gusty winds and heavy rain could still pose a threat. The warning was initially set to expire at 8:15 p.m. on May 8, 2025, but a Severe Thunderstorm Watch remains in effect until midnight for western North Carolina and the Piedmont region.
Lightning, a common occurrence during thunderstorms, strikes the United States approximately 25 million times each year, resulting in an average of 20 fatalities annually. As thunderstorms approach, the likelihood of lightning increases, peaking when the storm is directly overhead. Residents are advised to take precautions, such as finding secure shelter and avoiding contact with corded phones and electrical devices.
In Chester County, South Carolina, a severe thunderstorm warning was also issued, with the potential for penny-sized hail and wind gusts up to 60 mph. At 12:33 a.m. on May 9, 2025, the NWS reported a severe thunderstorm located 7 miles southwest of Chester, moving east at 20 mph. The storm has since weakened, but the warning remains in effect until 12:45 a.m. Residents are advised to expect damage to trees and power lines.
In Rockingham County, Virginia, the NWS Blacksburg stated that the storm prompting a warning has weakened below severe limits, yet gusty winds and heavy rain could still occur. This warning is also in effect until 8 p.m. on May 8, 2025.
As thunderstorms roll through, it is crucial for drivers to exercise caution on the roads. The NWS provides several tips for driving in rainy conditions:
- Switch on headlights, even during daylight hours, to improve visibility.
- Opt for middle lanes and higher ground, as rainwater tends to gather along the edges of the road.
- Avoid puddles, which can lead to hydroplaning and loss of control.
- Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles, as they can create water spray that hampers visibility.
- Steer clear of flooded areas and turn around if encountering flooded roads.
Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle slides uncontrollably on wet roads, often caused by a buildup of water in front of the tires. The top three factors contributing to hydroplaning are vehicle speed, water depth, and tire tread depth. Drivers are advised to ease off the accelerator and turn into the skid to regain control if hydroplaning occurs.
In Auckland, New Zealand, MetService has issued a severe thunderstorm warning for the Coromandel and Bay of Plenty regions, following a significant downpour that hit Auckland. Meteorologist Katie Hillyer noted that while the severe thunderstorm warning for Auckland has been lifted, a line of severe thunderstorms is moving east, bringing the potential for very heavy rain.
The heavy rainfall in Auckland led to reports of flooding in the suburb of Mt Roskill, with nearly 40 domestic flights disrupted due to the downpour. Between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on May 9, 2025, 15-25mm of rain fell in Auckland, causing hazardous driving conditions and multiple crashes across the motorway network.
As the storms continue to develop, residents are reminded to stay updated on the latest weather warnings and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The NWS and other meteorological services will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as needed.
In York County, South Carolina, the NWS Greenville-Spartanburg issued an updated severe thunderstorm warning at 9:32 p.m. on May 8, 2025, effective until 10 p.m. The storms are expected to bring penny-sized hail and wind gusts up to 60 mph. The warning covers areas including Newport, Lesslie, Catawba, and Rock Hill.
The NWS warns residents to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a building for their protection. As the storm moves through, the risk of lightning remains high, and residents are encouraged to avoid outdoor activities until the storm has passed.
As severe weather patterns continue to evolve, it is essential for individuals and families to stay informed and prepared. Whether in the U.S. or abroad, understanding how to respond to thunderstorms can help mitigate risks and ensure safety during these unpredictable weather events.
