Whitecaps are already forming on Lake Murray, and tree limbs sway across the Midlands skyline. Winds are picking up quickly around Columbia this morning as a Lake Wind Advisory remains in effect from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
South Carolina faces a breezy and stormy start to the day. Southwest winds blow 10 to 15 mph, with gusts reaching 35 mph. Those gusts will create rough conditions on area lakes, especially Lake Murray and Lake Wateree. Small craft could easily be overturned. Boaters should delay plans or use extreme caution.
Rain and thunderstorms are likely through the afternoon. Highs climb to 68 degrees despite thick clouds and passing downpours. Some storms may produce heavier bursts of rain and stronger wind gusts. Drivers along I-20 and I-26 should expect ponding on roads and sudden visibility drops.
Showers taper late, but rain remains likely tonight before 4 a.m. Patchy fog could develop toward daybreak as winds relax. Temperatures settle near 53 degrees.
Friday stays unsettled early with rain likely before 7 a.m., then mostly cloudy skies and a high near 62. By Saturday, sunshine returns. Highs reach 68 with lighter north winds.
Sunday delivers a true spring tease. Sunshine pushes temperatures to 75 degrees, offering a preview of early March warmth. The warming trend continues into early next week, with highs near 65 Monday and upper 60s by midweek.
Long-range guidance favors above-normal temperatures heading into the first week of March. For now, focus on gusty winds and storm timing today.
Five-Day Outlook for Columbia, SC:
Friday: Rain early, high 62.
Saturday: Partly sunny, high 68.
Sunday: Sunny, high 75.
Monday: Chance of rain, high 65.
Tuesday: Partly sunny, high 57.
