News Summary
An EF-1 tornado hit Chapin, South Carolina, on June 9, causing widespread damage as severe storms swept through the area. The tornado lasted about six minutes, reaching wind speeds of 95 mph and impacting various local landmarks. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries, but the storm resulted in thousands of power outages, particularly in Lexington County. Recovery efforts are underway as the community continues to assess the damage and restore normalcy.
Chapin, SC: EF-1 Tornado Strikes, Causes Damage Amid Severe Storms
An EF-1 tornado touched down in Chapin, South Carolina, on the night of June 9, 2025, leaving a path of destruction as severe storms swept through the Midlands. The National Weather Service (NWS) confirmed that the tornado, which reached peak wind speeds of 95 miles per hour, formed around 8:43 p.m. and lasted for approximately six minutes.
The tornado originated on a peninsula of Lake Murray along Caro Lane, traveling northeast over a distance of about 6.17 miles and maintaining a width of 200 yards. The storm crossed significant landmarks such as Amicks Ferry Road, affecting areas along Lake Tide Drive, Sandbar Road, and Lazy Creek Court.
As the tornado moved along its path, it caused considerable damage including fallen tree limbs and debris scattered around Crooked Creek Park and Old Lexington Highway. Additional destruction was reported behind Northshore Drive and upon crossing Highway 76. Minor damage was also noted on Hollyoak Lane before the tornado disappeared from the radar.
In response to the storm’s aftermath, the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) worked swiftly to clear trees and debris, reopening Lake Tide Drive to traffic. Despite the significant damage reported, there were no injuries attributed to the tornado.
Residents reported observing the storms intensifying around 7:30 p.m., leading to the issuance of a tornado warning shortly thereafter. The severe weather prompted power outages across the region, with Lexington County experiencing the most significant impact, peaking at over 3,000 power outages during the storm.
The tornado’s path notably included areas near Chapin Elementary School and Old Lauren Lane. Local residents took to social media to share images and videos of the storm as it unfolded. The NWS is conducting a final review of the damage caused by the tornado, although no timeline for its completion has been provided.
Throughout the Lake Murray area, conditions similar to those experienced during this event are typically characteristic of severe weather occurrences. Residents in the region have become accustomed to the storms that frequently impact the area, reminding them of the power of nature and the importance of preparedness.
Emergency management and local authorities continue to monitor the situation, assessing damages and ensuring the safety of residents as recovery efforts get underway. The quick response to clear debris and restore power highlights the community’s resilience in the face of unexpected severe weather.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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
Confirmed EF-1 Tornado Causes Damage Along Lake Murray
Chapin Tornado Causes Significant Damage to Local Areas
Chapin, SC Prepares for Cleanup After EF-1 Tornado
Chapin, SC Struck by EF-1 Tornado: A Night to Remember
Chapin Residents Face Damage After EF-1 Tornado Hits Town
Thornville Opens New Tornado Shelter for Residents
Additional Resources
- WIS TV: EF-1 Tornado Confirmed Near Chapin
- Wikipedia: Tornado
- WLTX: Tornado Confirmed in Chapin, SC
- Google Search: Chapin SC tornado
- The State: Chapin Tornado News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado
- WIS TV: NWS Confirms Tornado in Chapin
- Google News: Lake Murray severe weather
