Spring Weather Brings a Variety of Hazards and Storms

3/22/2022 (Permalink)

The United States is a big territory, and having such a big space under one umbrella means that the spring season looks different depending on where you go. We are second in size only to Russia and Canada, although China is larger if you don’t count all the United States outlying territories.

Our vast space means that no two weather patterns will be the same. As spring nears and cold air begins to collide with warm air, let’s take a look at what different geographical regions can expect, and specifically, what we can expect here in Greenwood, Abbeville & McCormick County.

The Upper Midwest and Northeast regions don’t always get to experience a warmup in the spring. This area stays colder than any other throughout the season as winter often doesn’t lose its grip until early summer. Residents from Maine to the Dakotas can expect extreme cold and the possibility of snowstorms and blizzards.

Those in the Pacific Northwest region are prone to heavy rain over the spring months, which can cause flooding and water damage issues. Higher elevations often are still dealing with snow like their northeast neighbors, and the melting and runoff from that can cause even more problems for residents in this area.

The flip side of these two areas, the southern West Coast, has to prepare for extreme heat that can create a dangerous situation for safety and quality of life. There is also the threat of tsunamis in areas of the South Pacific, including Hawaii, caused by shifts in the tectonic plates.

Here in the Southeast, we can expect severe storms and tornadoes as our weather experiences extreme shifts in temperature. Coastal states near us also have to contend with rip currents and early season hurricanes as spring takes hold.

The true tornado alley, the middle region of the country likely understands the risk of tornadoes better than we do. From Iowa to down to Texas contends with windstorms, derechos and fire risks made especially dangerous by dry conditions and swinging temperatures.

No matter where you live, you will experience some form of extreme weather as we move out of winter and towards summer. We know well here in South Carolina that staying prepared pays, no matter what spring may bring.