6:50 PM update: The Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been extended until 9PM. The risk for severe weather continues in the Lowcountry, particularly with a severe thunderstorm moving through eastern Orangeburg County, approaching Berkeley County.

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch is now in effect for the Charleston metro area (including Berkeley, Charleston, and Dorchester counties) until 7PM. Damaging wind gusts and large hail will be the primary concerns for any storms that form. Stay alert to possible severe thunderstorm warnings this afternoon and evening, and be ready for quickly changing conditions.