Columbia, South Carolina – Damaging winds and frequent lightning could impact much of central South Carolina this afternoon as isolated strong to marginally severe thunderstorms develop between 2 and 8 p.m.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, a Marginal Risk (Level 1 out of 5) is in effect Saturday, with the greatest potential for severe weather across the Midlands, including Lexington, Richland, Sumter, and Orangeburg counties. The primary hazards are gusty winds strong enough to down limbs and power lines, along with lightning and localized hail.
Columbia, Sumter, and surrounding areas should prepare for possible delays to outdoor events, as storms may form quickly in the hot, humid air mass. Rainfall could lead to minor ponding on roads, especially during peak travel times. Officials advise residents to remain weather aware, charge phones, and have multiple ways to receive warnings.
Though severe activity is expected to remain isolated, similar conditions to Friday could produce quick-hitting storms with damaging potential.
Additional updates are expected later today, and alerts may be extended or upgraded depending on storm development.
