Columbia, S.C. – The pavement is already shimmering under a strengthening July sun, and the hottest stretch of the week is beginning across the Midlands. By late afternoon, stepping outside could feel more like 105 degrees, making heat the biggest concern today before thunderstorms return later this week.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, Monday will stay mostly sunny and hot with a high near 97 degrees. Heat index values are expected to reach 105 degrees this afternoon as light winds become southwesterly. Residents should limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, drink plenty of water, and check on older adults, children, and pets.
Travel conditions remain favorable across Interstates 20, 26, and 77, but vehicles can heat rapidly in direct sunlight. Never leave children or pets unattended inside parked vehicles, even for a few minutes. Construction crews, landscapers, and anyone working outdoors should schedule frequent cooling breaks.
The heat continues Tuesday with another high near 96 degrees, while the heat index climbs to 107 degrees. Most of the day stays dry, although humidity will remain elevated, making conditions feel even more oppressive during the afternoon commute.
By Wednesday, the weather pattern begins to shift. High temperatures ease slightly to around 95 degrees, but a 30% chance of afternoon showers and thunderstorms develops after 2 p.m. Those storm chances increase significantly Wednesday night, when rain becomes more widespread with a 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms.
Thursday brings the wettest period of the workweek. Rain chances rise to 70%, with showers and thunderstorms likely through the afternoon. Locally heavy downpours, frequent lightning, gusty winds, and brief travel delays will be possible across the Columbia metro and surrounding Midlands.
Looking beyond midweek, temperatures gradually trend downward into the upper 80s while daily opportunities for showers and thunderstorms continue. Longer-range outlooks also favor above-normal temperatures heading into late next week despite the increase in rainfall.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbia, South Carolina
- Monday: Sunny and hot. High 97°F. Heat index up to 105°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny. High 96°F. Heat index up to 107°F.
- Wednesday: High 95°F. 30% chance of afternoon thunderstorms.
- Thursday: High 90°F. 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms.
- Friday: High 88°F. 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms.
