Columbia, South Carolina – Thunderstorms will return to central South Carolina on Monday, July 21, combining with oppressive heat near 99°F to create hazardous conditions through the afternoon and evening hours.
According to the National Weather Service, scattered thunderstorms will begin developing after 2 p.m. Monday, increasing in coverage through the evening. Storms may bring gusty winds, frequent lightning, and locally heavy rainfall. Heat index values will climb as high as 107°F, prompting a summer weather alert for much of the Midlands, including Columbia, Lexington, and Cayce.
Motorists traveling I-26 and U.S. 1 should prepare for sudden downpours, slick roads, and reduced visibility through Monday evening. Isolated flooding is possible in low-lying or poorly drained areas. Residents are urged to limit outdoor activity, stay hydrated, and monitor weather alerts throughout the day.
By Tuesday, thunderstorm chances increase to 70%, with widespread storms expected through the night. Conditions will gradually dry out by Wednesday, though daily rain chances persist into the weekend.
📅 Five-Day Forecast for Columbia, SC (July 21–26):
- Monday: 99°F and humid. Thunderstorms possible after 2 p.m. (40% chance). Storms continue into the night (40%).
- Tuesday: High of 90°F. Scattered storms likely in the afternoon and evening (70% chance).
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, 91°F. Isolated afternoon storms possible (40%).
- Thursday: Showers and storms return after 2 p.m. High near 91°F (40% chance).
- Friday: Hot and humid with afternoon storms (30%). High near 93°F.
- Saturday: Storms remain possible into the weekend (30%). Highs in the upper 90s.
⚠️ More alerts may be issued as storm threats evolve. Stay weather-aware and prepare for potential disruptions.
