Charleston, South Carolina – Residents across coastal South Carolina could face a dangerous round of severe thunderstorms Monday as a strong cold front moves toward the region, bringing the risk of 75+ mph wind gusts, strong tornadoes, and large hail.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, severe weather may begin as early as Monday morning with isolated storms developing ahead of the main system. The threat is expected to increase through the afternoon and continue until the main squall line pushes offshore later Monday evening.
Meteorologists warn that damaging winds exceeding 75 mph are the primary concern across much of the Lowcountry. However, storms could also produce strong tornadoes rated EF2 or higher and hail larger than 2 inches in diameter.
The areas most at risk include Charleston, North Charleston, Summerville, Beaufort, and Hilton Head, as well as inland communities along the I-26 corridor toward Columbia. Travel along U.S. 17 and Interstate 95 may become hazardous if severe storms move through during the afternoon commute.
Officials urge residents to prepare before storms arrive Monday by enabling emergency alerts, securing outdoor objects, and identifying a safe interior room away from windows in case tornado warnings are issued.
The severe weather risk will continue through the afternoon until the cold front and its main line of storms shift offshore. Additional watches or warnings may be issued as the system approaches the South Carolina coast.
