News Summary
A severe thunderstorm warning has been issued for Columbia and surrounding areas, including Lexington and Richland counties, expected until 7:45 p.m. Residents should prepare for wind gusts up to 55 mph, heavy rain, and possible power outages. Its impact may affect local attractions and key highways, urging people to stay indoors and monitor alerts closely. Cleanup from prior storms is ongoing, with the potential for more severe weather predicted through Monday.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Columbia and Nearby Areas
Residents of Columbia and its neighboring communities are bracing for significant weather as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a severe thunderstorm warning. The alert covers Lexington and Richland counties, with expectations in place until 7:45 p.m. on Sunday evening. So, if you have outdoor plans or haven’t checked your emergency supplies lately, now’s the time!
Wind Gusts and Heavy Rain
Weather experts are forecasting wind gusts reaching speeds of up to 55 mph. Yikes! Those kinds of winds can knock over tree limbs and toss around anything that isn’t securely fastened. Doppler radar has already spotted a strong thunderstorm traveling from the Columbia Metro Airport towards Oak Grove, moving north at a speed of about 10 mph.
Those in affected locations, including West Columbia, Cayce, Irmo, and Forest Acres, should remain alert. The storm’s reach may impact several areas such as Columbia International University and even popular spots like the Riverbanks Zoo and the SC State Fair Grounds.
Highways to Watch
Drivers should also keep an eye on some key highways that may be affected by the storm. Notable roadways include:
- Interstate 126 between mile markers 0 and 3
- Interstate 20 covering mile markers 53 to 73
- Interstate 26 from mile markers 99 to 116
- Interstate 77, particularly near mile marker 0
Remember, if you’re outdoors, it’s wise to seek shelter immediately. The NWS has advised against driving through any flooded roads. And let’s not forget about lightning – which strikes the U.S. around 25 million times every year. With an average of 20 fatalities in the summer alone, safety should always come first.
Power Outages Galore
As storm activity ramped up over the Midlands on Sunday morning, over 10,000 customers were reported without power, thanks to severe thunderstorms rolling through the area since 10:40 a.m. Many saw wind gusts hitting around 60 mph. The previous night saw winds of similar force contributing to downed trees, branches, and even utility poles.
Cleanup efforts are currently in progress, but as residents gear up for more storm activity anticipated throughout the day, they remain on high alert. The most intense weather is expected between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. today.
What’s Ahead for Monday?
Looking ahead to Monday, predictions share a concerning outlook of potentially more severe weather, including damaging winds and even tornadoes. This storm system could echo past events that have already caused chaos in the region. Residents may want to prepare for an additional inch of rain by Monday evening.
As if that’s not enough, rain and thunderstorms are being forecasted to hang around all week, aside from a break on Wednesday. Those hoping for sunshine might feel the heat with temperatures expected to hover around 90 degrees most days!
Stay Informed
The weather is ever-changing, and conditions can escalate quickly. Be sure to keep an eye on local weather updates so you can stay informed. Remember, your safety is the top priority. Stay safe and hunker down, Columbia!
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Additional Resources
- WACH: Power Outages Reported Across the Midlands
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm
- PennLive: Thunderstorms with Penny-Sized Hail
- Google Search: Thunderstorm Warning
- KOMU: Columbia Suspends Recycling Indefinitely
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather
- WLTX: Severe Weather Potential for South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Weather
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
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