Hail in Florence County, South Carolina

A severe thunderstorm developed west of the city of Florence and moved east. The damage began on the southwest side of the city with reports (including ham radio, media, and spotters) of large hail and wind gusts estimated over 80 mph. The largest hail size was estimated at 4 1/2 inches, which caused extensive damage over $6 million to more than 2000 homes, mainly roof and siding damage.The hail and wind blew out many windows, injuring one person with flying glass. The storm knocked out power to over 20,000 residences. Damage to vehicles was even more costly. Several automobile dealerships sustained major damage to nearly every car in their lots...totaling around 1000 vehicles. One man was injured in his vehicle when a hailstone crashed through his windshield, causing facial lacerations. In addition, the storm produced flash flooding, with many streets rendered temporarily impassable. A National Weather Service damage assessment reported dozens of trees damaged and snapped...was concluded to be due to straight-line winds and hail, not a tornado. An automated weather observation station at the Florence airport, just east of the city, recorded a peak wind of 59 mph.