Severe Thunderstorms Cause Power Outages in Columbia, SC

News Summary

Columbia, SC, faced severe thunderstorms this past weekend, leading to power outages affecting over 10,000 customers. Strong winds and heavy rains caused significant damage, prompting the National Weather Service to issue warnings for the region. Residents are advised to stay alert as more severe weather is expected in the coming days, including high winds and possible tornadoes. Safety measures are crucial, especially for those in affected counties and outdoor locations.

Severe Thunderstorms Hit Columbia, SC: Power Outages and Weather Warnings Follow

Columbia, South Carolina, experienced yet another dramatic round of severe weather this past weekend, and residents are feeling its aftermath. Over 10,000 customers in the Midlands region woke up on Sunday morning to find their power gone, all thanks to the ferocious storms that rolled through the area the night before.

Storms Bring Destruction

On Saturday night, Columbia and its neighboring areas were battered by powerful storms that unleashed strong winds and heavy precipitation. These wild conditions caused downed branches, toppled trees, and even brought utility poles crashing down. It was a bit like a scene from a disaster movie, which, let’s be honest, isn’t something anyone looks forward to witnessing in their own backyard.

A Weather Warning That Packs a Punch

The National Weather Service (NWS) was on alert and issued further severe weather warnings for the region. On Sunday morning, a severe thunderstorm warning was announced for areas like Columbia, Lexington, and West Columbia at approximately 10:40 a.m., with expectations that these storms would continue to cause chaos until around 11:15 a.m..

During these storms, wind gusts reaching up to 60 mph were recorded, and it wasn’t just a fleeting burst. The windy conditions persisted for a good 20 minutes, creating hazardous circumstances all around. Not only did these storms make things difficult for pedestrians, but they also turned driving into a treacherous affair for many Midlands residents.

Look Out for What’s Coming

10 a.m. and 4 p.m., adding another layer of anxiety to the day. While meteorologists suggest that the storms may not be as widespread as the previous night’s madness, they’re stressing that the potential remains for some strong-to-severe weather.

If you live south of the Interstate 20 corridor, brace yourself, as these areas are predicted to bear the brunt of Sunday’s turbulent conditions. Counties like Richland, Lexington, and even northern Calhoun have been placed under the severe thunderstorm warning. If you happen to be out on Lake Murray, experts recommend taking immediate safety measures and heading for shelter.

Stormy Predictions Continue

Earlier on Sunday, other thunderstorms wreaked havoc in neighboring areas like Saluda, Edgefield, and McCormick counties, further enforcing the severity of the situation. The forecast for the day indicated a 40% chance of precipitation, with some locales possibly experiencing even greater amounts during peak thunderstorm activity.

As if Mother Nature needed to add another twist, Monday’s weather is set to escalate, with potential for severe thunderstorms, including the risk of tornadoes. The damage could be significant, with forecasts predicting strong winds and isolated tornadoes that could pose threats to trees, vehicles, and homes.

What to Expect Next Week

maximum rainfall accumulation of about one inch by the time Monday turns into Tuesday. The Columbia area isn’t catching a break either, as chances of rain and thunderstorms seem to linger throughout the week, except on Wednesday.

90 degrees projected. So while you’re preparing for the storms, make sure to stay cool and hydrated as well!

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Additional Resources

• The State: Severe Thunderstorms Hit Columbia, SC
• Wikipedia: Severe Weather
• WLTX: Storm Forecast in Columbia
• Google Search: Columbia SC Weather
• WIS: Power Outages Across Midlands
• Google Scholar: Severe Weather Impact
• WLTX: Weather Impact Alert for South Carolina
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorms
• Island Packet: Weather News
• Google News: Columbia Weather Outages

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