Columbia, South Carolina – South Carolinians are battling classic summer heat and humidity as thunderstorms threaten afternoon plans across the state through Friday. Relief is in sight, however, with a strong cold front poised to sweep through Friday night, bringing cooler temperatures just in time for the first weekend of August.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, daily highs will reach the low to mid-90s for cities like Lexington, Sumter, and Aiken, with rain chances hovering near 55% each day through Friday. Afternoon and evening storms could spark localized flooding and hazardous driving, especially along I-20 and major Midlands routes.
Columbia, Orangeburg, and surrounding counties remain at risk for downed trees, power outages, and slippery roads during peak thunderstorm hours. Emergency officials recommend limiting non-essential travel, securing loose outdoor items, and charging electronic devices in advance.
Communities from Augusta to Manning should expect a notable drop in temperatures by Saturday, with highs in the low 80s—nearly 10 degrees cooler than earlier in the week. This cooldown comes as the strongest cold front in weeks pushes out the muggy air, echoing similar late-July patterns seen in previous years.
Expect storm chances and sticky heat to linger until late Friday, with more weather updates possible as the weekend approaches.
