Tornado watch issued for Chesterfield County

The National Weather Service in Columbia has placed Chesterfield County and much of central South Carolina under a tornado watch until 2 p.m. today (March 16), as a line of strong storms moves across the region.
Tornado Watch 65, issued at 7:59 a.m. Monday covers 12 South Carolina counties, including Aiken, Bamberg, Barnwell, Calhoun, Chesterfield, Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee, Lexington, Orangeburg, Richland, and Sumter.
Forecasters warn that conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes, damaging winds, and hail as temperatures rise and a strong storm system pushes through the Carolinas.
The watch means tornadoes are possible, and residents should be prepared to take shelter quickly if warnings are issued.
Local emergency officials urge residents to monitor weather alerts throughout the day.
Keep cell phones charged
Avoid travel during severe storms
Seek sturdy shelter immediately if a tornado warning is issued
The watch is scheduled to expire at 2 p.m., but weather conditions may change as the system moves east.