Columbia, SC – A slow-moving weather system is set to bring more showers and thunderstorms across Columbia and central South Carolina through Wednesday night, threatening to disrupt commutes and outdoor activities with daily rounds of heavy rain and lightning. Residents should prepare for brief but intense downpours, localized flooding in poor drainage spots, and potential delays on major roads including I-20 and I-26.
According to the National Weather Service, the greatest risk for thunderstorms comes each afternoon through Wednesday, with rain most likely after 2 p.m. Monday and a 70% chance of showers and storms Tuesday. Rainfall totals will remain on the lighter side for most, but any thunderstorm could quickly drop a half inch of rain or more in a short period. East winds will keep temperatures seasonable, but high humidity will add to the discomfort.
Travelers around downtown Columbia, Lexington, and Cayce should watch for slick roads, especially during evening rush hours. Keep phones charged, limit outdoor plans, and stay weather-aware—lightning and sudden cloudbursts can develop with little warning. After a wet stretch, Thursday offers a break with partly sunny skies and just a low risk of pop-up storms. Storm chances ramp up again Friday into the weekend, so keep umbrellas handy.
Warnings remain in effect for possible flooding and lightning through Wednesday night, with updates expected as new storms approach.
Five Day Forecast for Columbia, SC:
- Monday: Showers and storms possible, high near 81°F.
- Tuesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely, high 84°F.
- Wednesday: More showers and storms, high 86°F.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, only isolated storm chance, high 87°F.
- Friday: Showers and thunderstorms return, high near 90°F.
