Storms and Heavy Rain Could Disrupt Spartanburg Travel Saturday, NWS Warns
SPARTANBURG, S.C. — The National Weather Service has issued a weather alert for Saturday, August 16, warning that strong storms and heavy rain may cause hazardous travel conditions across Spartanburg County, especially along the busy I-85 corridor.
Storms Likely Saturday Afternoon Through Evening
According to the NWS Greenville-Spartanburg office, the most intense storm activity is expected between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. Forecasters warn of:
- Damaging wind gusts
- Localized flash flooding
- Scattered power outages
Areas with already saturated ground from recent rain could face heightened flooding risks, particularly in low-lying zones and east-facing mountain slopes.
Travel Advisory and Safety Tips
Drivers are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during storm hours and be cautious on roads that may flood quickly. The NWS recommends:
- Turning around when encountering flooded roadways
- Charging mobile devices ahead of time
- Securing loose outdoor items to prevent wind damage
These conditions are especially concerning for those traveling along I-85, which sees high traffic volumes and has been prone to weather-related disruptions in the past.
Spartanburg Forecast Snapshot
Here’s the five-day forecast for Spartanburg:
- Saturday: High 88°F, 30% chance of storms after 2 p.m., heavy rain possible
- Sunday: Sunny, high 90°F
- Monday: Sunny, high 91°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high 86°F
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high 83°F, 30% chance of late showers
Have you experienced storm-related travel issues in the Upstate region before? Share your story in the comments and follow Saluda Standard-Sentinel for continuing weather coverage across South Carolina.