Columbia, South Carolina – South Carolina residents should brace for a midweek soaking as a stretch of thunderstorms begins to roll through the Columbia area Thursday afternoon, bringing the potential for flash flooding, power outages, and hazardous travel—especially along I-26 and Highway 378.
According to the National Weather Service, storms will begin ramping up in the Columbia area after 11 a.m. Wednesday, with a stronger wave expected around 2 p.m. Rain chances jump to 80% Wednesday night and remain elevated through Thursday. Some storms could produce damaging winds, frequent lightning, and locally heavy downpours.
Columbia and surrounding towns—including Lexington, Irmo, and Cayce—could see multiple rounds of storms, with Thursday afternoon expected to be the most active. Light winds will offer little relief from humid conditions, with daytime highs near 86°F Wednesday and 81°F Thursday. Travel delays, especially during school dismissal and evening commutes, are likely. Motorists should slow down on slick roads and never attempt to cross flooded streets.
Thunderstorms could linger into Thursday night before tapering off early Friday. The NWS advises keeping phones charged, securing loose outdoor items, and preparing for potential power disruptions.
Five-Day Spring Weather Outlook for Columbia, SC:
- Wednesday: Showers and storms likely, high 86°F
- Thursday: Thunderstorms possible, high 81°F
- Friday: Drier but still a chance of showers, high 83°F
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 87°F
- Sunday: Sunny and pleasant, high 82°F
