Charleston, South Carolina – Scattered showers and thunderstorms return to the Lowcountry on Saturday, bringing a Marginal Risk (Level 1 out of 5) for isolated strong to severe storms during the afternoon and evening hours. The National Weather Service in Charleston highlights damaging wind gusts up to 60 mph as the primary hazard, with a low but non-zero chance of a brief tornado. Lightning and locally heavy downpours may also accompany the stronger cells.
Residents and travelers should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions, especially along major travel routes including Interstate 26, Interstate 95, U.S. 17, and SC-61. Storms could develop quickly in the warm, moist airmass and may cause sudden reductions in visibility or bring down small limbs. Isolated power outages are possible if stronger gusts accompany the storms.
The timing window for the highest risk appears to be Saturday afternoon through early evening, though lighter showers may linger earlier in the day. Any storm that organizes along boundaries or sea-breeze interactions may briefly intensify, especially north and west of Charleston. Localized ponding on roads is possible in heavier bursts of rain.
Those planning outdoor events or coastal activities should remain weather-aware and have a way to receive warnings. Boaters should be especially cautious, as strong winds can develop quickly in thunderstorms moving across coastal waters.
While the overall severe threat remains on the lower end, even isolated storms producing 60 mph gusts can cause hazardous conditions for vehicles on bridges and elevated sections of I-26 and major causeways.
More detailed updates will be issued as high-resolution models refine the storm timing and coverage.
