WEATHER WARNING DAY: Strong thunderstorms in the morning, additional activity in the afternoon

MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – Multiple severe thunderstorm warnings over the Pee Dee last night around 8 p.m. At 5:54 p.m. yesterday, golf ball-sized hail was reported in Lumberton and trees were downed in Pembroke due to strong winds. Scattered rain began at 4:00 p.m., severe thunderstorms occurred at 6:00 p.m. and the rain left the coast at 9:00 p.m

Strong storms again entered the viewing area at 4:30 this morning. There is a slight risk of storms today. The threat outlook…2% tornado, 5% severe hail (greater than 1 inch in diameter), 15% damaging wind (60+mph).

The storms are moving quickly and heading east. Rain will occur between 6:30 and 7:00 a.m., indicating the system will weaken and the rain will become lighter as it reaches the coast. Meanwhile gusty wind, frequent lightning and small hail. There will be periods of calm, dry weather between these stronger events.

Another round of strong to severe thunderstorms is planned for this afternoon. Timing for the Pee Dee is between 1 and 3 p.m. and then along the Grand Strand between 3 and 5 p.m. The chance of tornadoes is very low, but there were some warnings in the Upstate and Midlands this morning.

High temperatures will be in the mid 80s. Temperatures will cool in rainy areas. Partly cloudy and in the low 70s tonight.

A cold front will begin to move through Friday afternoon. This front will cause a stir temperature-wise, bringing drier, more pleasant air for Saturday and Mother’s Day, but also bringing more storms late this morning and again in the evening. The overall risk is not as high tomorrow, but there will be widespread light rain with isolated, embedded thunderstorms this morning and afternoon.

Humidity will be significantly lower over the weekend and temperatures will finally be normal on Saturday, sitting in the mid to upper 70s and upper 70s to near 80s on Sunday.