SOUTH CAROLINA — A tornado watch has been issued for four counties in Upstate South Carolina and will remain in effect until 1 p.m. Thursday, according to the National Weather Service.
The watch includes Abbeville, Greenwood, Laurens and Union counties. Officials say residents in these areas should stay alert and monitor weather conditions throughout the morning.
Emergency officials noted that South Carolina has averaged about 23 tornadoes per year since 2014, highlighting the need for residents to remain prepared during severe weather events.
Authorities advise people to watch for warning signs that a tornado may be forming. These can include dark or greenish skies, large hail and low-lying rotating clouds. A loud roaring sound, often compared to a freight train, may also indicate a developing tornado.
If a tornado warning is issued, residents should seek shelter immediately. The safest place is the lowest level of a building, such as a basement or storm cellar. If those are not available, officials recommend moving to an interior room like a hallway or closet on the lowest floor and staying away from windows and exterior walls.
People in mobile homes, trailers or vehicles are urged to leave immediately and find a sturdy building for shelter. If no indoor shelter is available, individuals should lie flat in a ditch or low-lying area and cover their heads while staying aware of flooding or flying debris.
After a storm passes, officials caution residents to avoid downed power lines and report them to their utility company. People are also advised to stay out of damaged buildings and use phones only for emergency calls so lines remain open for first responders.
