Columbia, S.C. – Residents across central South Carolina should brace for another stretch of heat before storms develop late in the weekend. Sunshine dominates Friday and Saturday, but Sunday brings a chance of thunderstorms that could slow travel and outdoor plans.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, temperatures climb to near 94 degrees Saturday with light southwest winds. Skies stay mostly sunny during the day before clouds build Saturday night. By Sunday afternoon, storms may fire up across Richland and Lexington counties with a 30% chance of rainfall. Motorists along I-26 and I-20 should plan for sudden downpours and reduced visibility during evening travel.
Saturday looks dry but uncomfortably hot. Those attending football games or community events should hydrate often and limit time in direct sun. Sunday’s thunder chances increase after 2 p.m., with brief heavy rain possible. While totals remain under a tenth of an inch for most, some neighborhoods could see stronger downpours.
Monday brings a brief break in the pattern with mostly sunny skies and highs in the mid-80s. Another round of mostly sunny weather holds through midweek, keeping daytime temperatures in the low to upper 80s — a welcome sign of early fall settling in.
Residents should monitor updates through the weekend as storm coverage could expand by Sunday evening.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbia, SC
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, high near 94°F.
- Sunday: Partly sunny, storms possible after 2 p.m., high near 89°F.
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 84°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 82°F.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 83°F.
