South Carolina – Darkening skies, humid air, and developing thunderstorms are setting the stage for another active weather day across the Midlands. Conditions may change quickly through the afternoon, with repeated rounds of rain capable of slowing travel and producing localized flooding before hotter weather returns later this week.
According to the National Weather Service, showers and thunderstorms become increasingly likely through the afternoon, with a 60% chance of precipitation during the day and a 90% chance of storms tonight. Some locations could receive heavy rainfall in a short period, especially where thunderstorms repeatedly track over the same neighborhoods.
The greatest impacts are expected across Columbia, Lexington, West Columbia, Cayce, Forest Acres, Irmo, and surrounding Richland and Lexington counties. Drivers on Interstate 20, Interstate 26, Interstate 77, U.S. 1, and U.S. 378 should be prepared for reduced visibility, ponding water, and slower travel during heavier downpours.
The broader weather pattern also supports locally heavy rainfall across portions of the Southeast today. National forecasters continue monitoring areas where saturated ground and repeated thunderstorms could produce isolated flash flooding. While widespread severe weather is not expected across Columbia, stronger storms may contain frequent lightning, gusty winds, and torrential rainfall. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out in stronger thunderstorms, but the primary concern remains heavy rain.
Plan outdoor activities early if possible, and keep multiple ways to receive weather alerts. Never drive through flooded roadways, and allow extra travel time during afternoon and evening commutes.
The wet pattern gradually eases by midweek. Sunshine becomes more common Wednesday before temperatures climb into the lower 90s Thursday and the middle 90s by Friday, bringing a return to typical midsummer heat.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbia, South Carolina
- Today: Chance of thunderstorms. High 84°F.
- Tonight: Thunderstorms likely, then scattered showers. Low 69°F.
- Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. High 84°F.
- Tuesday Night: Showers early, then decreasing clouds. Low 70°F.
- Wednesday: Partly sunny with a chance of afternoon thunderstorms. High 89°F.
- Thursday: Sunny. High 93°F.
