Columbia, S.C. – Thunderstorms with damaging winds and heavy rainfall are expected to move through South Carolina’s Midlands Monday afternoon, posing a risk to travel and outdoor plans from 2 to 9 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, hot and humid air will fuel isolated to scattered storms across the region, with the strongest activity favoring eastern areas like Sumter, Orangeburg, and Clarendon counties. While most storms will remain below severe limits, a few could produce gusty winds, small hail, and brief downpours.
Localized flooding could impact low-lying roads, especially during rush hour. Residents are urged to secure outdoor items and avoid travel during storm periods. Lightning and falling limbs may also be hazards, particularly in wooded or rural areas.
The marginal severe threat follows a similar pattern to Sunday’s storms, with the greatest rain chances expected east of I-77. Temperatures will remain in the 90s, with heat index values pushing near 100°F by mid-afternoon.
Storms are expected to taper off by 9 p.m., though additional rounds of summer storms remain possible later this week.
🔎 Five-Day Midlands SC Forecast:
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, isolated storms late. High 92°F.
- Wednesday: Scattered thunderstorms likely. High 89°F.
- Thursday: Partly cloudy, slight storm chance. High 91°F.
- Friday: Mostly sunny and hot. High 94°F.
- Saturday: Afternoon storms possible. High 90°F.
