Severe thunderstorms hit the Carolinas over the weekend, resulting in a massive hailstorm that caused damage to buildings, vehicles, and trees. In Rock Hill, South Carolina, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issued with winds up to 70 mph and large hail. The National Weather Service received reports of hail ranging from quarter to golf ball size during the storm. Teams from the National Weather Service office in Greenville-Spartanburg, South Carolina, surveyed the damage in Rock Hill and York and found extensive damage due to the combination of high winds and baseball-size hail. While some residents suspected a tornado, the survey team determined that the damage was caused by the strong winds and hail.
Reports of damage quickly came in from York County, South Carolina, following the hailstorm. Rock Hill received hailstones up to 4 inches in diameter, making it the largest hail reported in South Carolina in 13 years. The hailstorm covered yards and properties in ice, giving the appearance of snow on the ground. Videos recorded by residents showed the intense hail knocking down fences and causing damage to vehicles. One resident was preparing to cater a wedding when the storm hit, causing significant damage to his truck and property. Another video showed a river of ice water flowing down the street in front of a home.
Residents of Rock Hill described the hailstorm as sudden and intense, with hail starting as penny-size before increasing to golf ball-size. Austin Jefferson, a resident of Rock Hill, mentioned that the hailstorm occurred as he was getting ready for a wedding. His truck was damaged, including a cracked windshield and dents, which required help to clear the ice from his driveway to attend the event. Drone footage over the Roddey Park neighborhood showcased the widespread damage caused by the storm, including downed fences, damaged vehicles, and roofs covered in blue tarps in the aftermath of the hail.
The hailstorm also resulted in widespread tree and wind damage throughout Rock Hill, with reports of a gas station awning collapsing and business windows being blown in. The storm prompted the school district to switch to eLearning for students on Monday due to the community-wide damage. The combination of strong winds and large hail caused significant property damage and minor injuries in the affected areas. Despite initial suspicions of a tornado, the National Weather Service survey team confirmed that the damage was caused by the severe thunderstorms hitting the region over the weekend. The community is now focused on recovery and repair efforts following the hailstorm.
