Charleston, S.C. – A dangerous combination of heat and humidity is gripping the South Carolina Lowcountry and Southeast Georgia today, with heat index values expected to soar between 103 and 109 degrees. Areas near Hinesville, Savannah, and Beaufort could see isolated peaks of 108 to 109 degrees, creating potentially life-threatening conditions for anyone outdoors for extended periods.
According to the National Weather Service in Charleston, the most oppressive conditions will occur between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m., with the highest risk centered along and just inland from the I-95 corridor. Officials urge residents to drink plenty of water, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and never leave children or pets inside vehicles, even for a short time.
The extreme heat will challenge outdoor workers, athletes, and travelers. Coastal breezes will offer little relief, and evening temperatures are expected to remain uncomfortably warm. Emergency managers recommend checking on elderly neighbors and ensuring air conditioning units are functioning properly.
Heat advisories remain in effect through this evening, with a slight drop in heat index values possible midweek. More alerts could follow if oppressive heat persists into late week.
