Columbia, S.C. – Dangerous heat is gripping much of central South Carolina today, with temperatures soaring into the lower to mid-90s and heat index values climbing into the upper 90s to lower 100s. The National Weather Service warns the combination of high humidity and intense heat will make outdoor activities risky, especially during the afternoon.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, the most intense heat will occur between noon and 5 p.m., with some locations like Aiken, Augusta, and Orangeburg potentially feeling 103°F to 105°F. A few late-day showers and thunderstorms could develop, especially west of I-77, offering brief relief but also bringing the risk of lightning and heavy rain.
Officials urge residents to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity, and check on vulnerable neighbors. Pets should be brought indoors or provided with ample shade and water, and children must never be left in vehicles.
The heat risk will linger into the evening, with cooler temperatures not arriving until after sunset. Another round of hot and humid weather is likely this weekend, keeping heat safety precautions in focus.
