News Summary

An EF-1 tornado struck Chapin, South Carolina, causing damage primarily to trees but fortunately no injuries or significant structural damage. The tornado touched down just after 8:45 p.m. and had a brief existence of six minutes. It traveled approximately 6.17 miles, affecting areas around Lake Murray. Cleanup crews are working diligently to restore normalcy in the community. Officials noted the tornado approached but did not cross Interstate 26, allowing traffic to remain unaffected.

Chapin, South Carolina

An EF-1 tornado touched down in Chapin, South Carolina, on Monday night, causing noticeable damage but fortunately resulting in no reported injuries or structural destruction. The tornado struck at approximately 8:45 p.m. on June 9, 2025, and was confirmed by the National Weather Service the following day.

The tornado had a brief lifespan of six minutes, occurring between 8:43 p.m. and 8:49 p.m. It traveled northeast for roughly 6.17 miles, beginning on a peninsula of Lake Murray along Caro Lane in Lexington County, and dissipating near Old Laurel Lane. At its peak, wind speeds were recorded at 95 mph with the tornado reaching a maximum width of 200 yards.

The tornado caused significant damage to trees in the area, especially on Lake Tide Drive, where dozens of trees were either uprooted or snapped. Other affected areas included Sandbar Road and Lazy Creek Court. Cleanup crews from the South Carolina Department of Transportation began clearing downed trees and debris on Tuesday, the day following the tornado’s path of destruction. Town officials noted that while minor cleanup was needed, the local water system remained undamaged.

Despite the wind’s intensity and the damage to trees, reports indicate that there were no major structural damages nor any injuries resulting from the tornado. The tornado’s path notably passed near Piney Woods Elementary School, causing concern among residents, but no impacts were reported at the school.

Local resident accounts described the onset of the tornado with sudden shifts in wind patterns followed by heavy rainfall. This tornado developed rapidly, emerging on the northern edge of a larger thunderstorm squall line that was active in the region at the time. Fortunately, the tornado approached but did not cross Interstate 26, where traffic remained largely uninterrupted.

As efforts continue in the cleanup process, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has advised drivers in the area to slow down and exercise caution around the cleanup crews working diligently to restore normalcy.

This tornado event stands as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of severe weather. While the damage was contained to trees and minor debris, the community is grateful for the absence of injuries and significant structural damage.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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EF-1 Tornado Strikes Chapin, South Carolina
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Chapin, SC: An EF-1 Tornado Shakes Up the Town!
EF-1 Tornado Strikes Lake Murray, South Carolina
EF-1 Tornado Strikes Chapin, SC, Causing Significant Damage
EF-1 Tornado Touches Down in Chapin, SC
EF1 Tornado Strikes Lexington County, South Carolina
EF1 Tornado Strikes Chapin, South Carolina
Significant Damage from EF-1 Tornado in Chapin, SC

Additional Resources

• WLTX: Chapin SC Tornado Damage
• Wikipedia: Tornado
• QC News: EF-1 Tornado Leaves Trail of Damage
• Google Search: Tornado Chapin South Carolina
• WACH: Tornado Confirmed in Chapin
• Google Scholar: Tornado Methodology
• WIS TV: NWS EF-1 Tornado Confirmed Near Chapin
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado
• WBTV: EF-1 Tornado Rips Through Central South Carolina
• Google News: Chapin South Carolina Tornado

Author: STAFF HERE Chapin

CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.