SCIEN

Life threatening rip currents and high surf likely this week

Flooding expected into the weekend

Flash flooding possible through Sunday

Saturated soils increase vulnerability to winds

Whenever a thunderstorm produces damaging winds, many people immediately assume that a tornado is responsible. However, the culprit is usually less exotic, but often just as destructive — downbursts.

According to the CDC, more than 1,000 Americans die due to excessive heat every year. Now, the NWS, NOAA and the CDC have collaborated to provide communities across the country with more information regarding excessive heat forecasts.

Just like for tornadoes and severe thunderstorms, the National Weather Service issues both extreme heat warnings and extreme heat watches.

With the return of summer heat, splash pads, swimming pools and the beach remain some of the most popular ways to stay cool. But even seemingly tranquil water can pose unseen risks due to dangerous currents or water too shallow for diving.

Eastern Pacific hurricane season becomes active, quiet in Atlantic

Heavy rain threats will be increasing Wednesday afternoon as bands of showers and thunderstorms sweep through the Lowcountry and into the Midlands.