Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Issued for Five U.S. States

Several parts of the U.S. are bracing for more dangerous weather, as the National Weather Service (NWS) issued severe thunderstorm warnings on Friday, July 18, for Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, South Carolina, and Virginia.

This warning adds to a string of recent weather-related tragedies across the country. Over the past month, the U.S. has faced deadly flooding in Texas that claimed more than 120 lives over Fourth of July weekend, and a tornado in upstate New York that killed three people.

What the NWS Is Saying

“Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property,” the NWS stated. “Take shelter in a substantial building. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds.”

Severe thunderstorm warnings typically cover small, localized areas, such as a city or county, and are issued when storms are expected to bring large hail or damaging winds.

Areas Under Thunderstorm Warnings

Colorado

Trinidad
Cokedale
Jansen

Oklahoma

Cherokee
Amorita
Byron

South Carolina

Conway
North Myrtle Beach
Red Hill

New Mexico

Lincoln County

Virginia

Floyd
North Shore
Westlake Corner
Moneta
Woolwine

Safety Tips from the NWS

Stay indoors and avoid windows
Secure loose objects outdoors
Have a communication plan in place
Follow local news for real-time updates
Avoid unnecessary travel

The good news? The storms aren’t expected to last long into the night, but officials urge residents in these areas to stay alert until the warning expires.

This article has been carefully fact-checked by our editorial team to ensure accuracy and eliminate any misleading information. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity in our content.