Columbia, South Carolina – Warm, dry conditions will give way to increasing storm chances by midweek, with temperatures climbing into the mid to upper 80s and setting the stage for unsettled afternoons.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, highs will reach the upper 70s to low 80s Monday and Tuesday under partly cloudy skies, before climbing to 82–87°F by Wednesday. That warming trend will help fuel scattered thunderstorms beginning Wednesday afternoon, with rain chances around 30%.
Cities across the Midlands, including Columbia, Lexington, Sumter, and Orangeburg, will see the greatest shift midweek as moisture returns. By Thursday, isolated storms remain possible, with coverage increasing again Friday when rain chances rise to near 50%, potentially affecting travel along I-20 and I-26.
While severe weather is not expected, brief downpours and lightning could disrupt outdoor plans during the afternoon and evening hours. Temperatures will remain above average throughout the week, maintaining a summer-like feel across central South Carolina.
Plan outdoor activities earlier in the day and stay weather-aware during peak heating hours. Storm chances continue through the end of the workweek, with additional updates likely as coverage increases.
