Storm alert: Windy skies ahead in the Lowcountry

A fast-moving storm system is rolling through South Carolina this afternoon, packing wind gusts that could reach 60 miles per hour. The National Weather Service has issued a severe thunderstorm warning covering much of the Lowcountry, including Charleston, Berkeley, Dorchester, Beaufort, and Colleton counties. While storms are nothing new in this coastal region, today’s system is moving quickly—sometimes outpacing typical summer patterns. In the northern part of the warning zone, a thunderstorm near Summerville is pushing east at about 20 mph, putting towns like North Charleston and Mount Pleasant in its path. Roads such as Interstate 26 and parts of Interstate 526 could see reduced visibility and debris from strong winds. The National Weather Service warns that roofs, siding, and trees may take a beating, especially where downbursts hit hard.Down in Beaufort and Colleton counties, the storm is lining up differently. Two separate cells are sweeping east at 30 mph, with one stretching from Islandton to near Coosawhatchie. Areas like Port Royal and Walterboro could face similar wind damage, and Interstate 95 between mile markers 22 and 62 might see slower traffic due to flying debris or fallen branches. What makes this storm unusual isn’t just its speed, but how widespread it is. Multiple counties are under the same warning at once, which doesn’t happen every day in this region. While coastal storms often fizzle out over water, today’s system is holding together well inland. Residents in these counties should expect sudden changes—dark skies, heavy rain, and brief but intense wind bursts. Power outages are always a risk with storms this strong, so charging phones and securing loose outdoor items are smart moves. The warning runs until 6 p. m. , but storms like this can speed up or slow down without much notice.