Columbia, South Carolina – South Carolina is on high alert for extreme heat Saturday, July 26, as temperatures across the Midlands soar to 101°F with heat index values topping 108°. Columbia residents are urged to avoid prolonged outdoor activity, especially near major corridors like I-20, where pavement temps can spike even higher.
According to the National Weather Service, calm morning winds will shift southwest by afternoon, intensifying heat impacts through 6 p.m. Saturday. The brutal heat marks the most intense stretch of the summer so far, with Sunday and Monday offering little relief as daytime highs remain above 100°F.
Columbia and surrounding areas including Lexington, Cayce, and Forest Acres should prepare for increased electricity demand, heat exhaustion risk, and possible vehicle overheating. Hydration, limited outdoor exposure, and checking on vulnerable neighbors remain key this weekend.
Storm chances return Sunday afternoon with a 20% risk of scattered thunderstorms, then rise to 30% Monday through Thursday. These storms could bring brief cooling but may also produce localized flooding or power outages. Evening temps won’t fall below the upper 70s, offering little nighttime relief.
🌤️ Five-Day Columbia, SC Forecast (Sat, July 26 – Fri, Aug 1):
- Saturday, July 26: Sunny and hot. High 101°F. Heat index up to 108°. Winds southwest at 6 mph.
- Sunday: Slight chance of storms after 2 p.m. High 103°F.
- Monday: Storm chances increase to 30%. High near 103°F.
- Tuesday: Scattered storms possible. High near 100°F.
- Wednesday: Continued storm chances. High around 102°F.
- Thursday: 40% chance of storms. High near 99°F.
- Friday, August 1: Storm potential lingers. Highs in upper 90s.
⚠️ Warnings remain possible through midweek. Stay tuned for updates and avoid unnecessary travel during peak afternoon hours.
