Watch out for falling trees as Ian approaches SC. A Columbia-area motorist was already hit
What makes South Carolina a beautiful state can also make it deadly during a Hurricane — the trees.
That especially applies to tree-filled Columbia, Lexington and Beaufort County as well as the rest of the Lowcountry with its old oaks.
Hurricanes can cause massive trees to uproot and their limbs to snap like twigs. As Ian approaches, residents, particularly those in Columbia’s tree-lined communities, should be aware of their surroundings and stay away from trees.
The National Weather Service of Columbia has said that winds from Ian could bring down trees and power lines.
“Down trees can damage homes, create road hazards and take power lines with them,” Derrec Becker of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division said. “Avoid down trees until you’re able to clean up safely, and don’t go near any down power line. Treat every down power line as if it were energized.”
Falling trees are not an idle concern. Friday morning as Ian approached SC, a tree fell on a motorist in Irmo, injuring her and crushing her car, according to the town’s fire department. Rescuers had to cut the woman out of the car and take her to the hospital. Fortunately, she is expected to survive, the department said.
The Midlands are predicted to get winds up to 60 mph, according to the latest weather service update. With a category 1 hurricane, like Ian, winds are sustained at 74 mph. Those wind speeds are well high enough to bring down limbs and some trees.
Emergency crews advise people to shelter inside during a hurricane. But if you’re caught outside, be aware of trees and limbs.
The National Weather Service says “if winds are severe enough to prevent safe driving, get onto the shoulder of the road and stop, making sure you are away from trees or other tall objects that could fall onto your vehicle. Stay in the car and turn on the hazard lights until the wind subsides.”
In living through and covering a few hurricanes, I’ve seen cars crushed and written about people killed or hurt by falling trees.
If you care about your car, avoid parking under a tree, as tough as that might be tough in Columbia.
In 2018, a falling tree killed two South Carolina reporters in their car as they were covering subtropical storm Alberto. That was only a subtropical storm.
Other objects other than trees can fall or be sent flying through the air by winds.
Being aware of trees during a hurricane might save your or a loved one’s life.
