Rock Hill, South Carolina, is grappling with the aftermath of powerful storms that swept through the area over the weekend, leaving behind a trail of destruction and chaos.
The National Weather Service, along with the York County Emergency Management office, has been assessing the extent of the damage caused by the severe weather.
Their primary objective is to ascertain the intensity of the storm, which wreaked havoc by shattering windows, uprooting trees, and bringing down power lines. One of the key questions they seek to answer is whether the storm spawned a tornado.
In the wake of the storm, Rock Hill Schools made the decision to shift to virtual learning on Monday, as numerous roads were deemed impassable and several school buildings remained without power. This move aimed to ensure the safety of students and staff members amidst the challenging conditions.
The thunderstorm that struck on Saturday afternoon evolved into what meteorologists classify as a supercell thunderstorm. With winds exceeding 60 mph and hail reaching sizes of up to two inches, the storm inflicted widespread damage across the area. Reports of smashed car windshields, roof damage, and power outages affecting thousands of residents underscore the severity of the weather event.
WCNC Charlotte Meteorologist Chris Mulcahy explained that the storm’s ability to generate large hailstones was due to its potent updraft. These powerful updraft winds propelled the hailstones to heights of 30,000 feet, where temperatures plummeted to -40 degrees Celsius, allowing the stones to grow to sizes slightly larger than golf balls.
The hailstorm, in particular, caused significant additional damage, pummeling homes and vehicles with golf ball-sized hailstones, shattering glass and leaving behind visible signs of destruction.
Residents, shaken by the ferocity of the storm, recounted their experiences, with some likening the sound to a barrage of rocks hitting their windows. Amidst the chaos, the National Weather Service issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning, indicating the potential for damaging winds and hail.
As the cleanup efforts continue and residents grapple with the aftermath, speculation persists about the possibility of a tornado forming during the storm. Investigators are diligently examining the evidence to determine the true nature and extent of the weather event, providing valuable insights into its impact on the community.