July 9, 2025

Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Midlands Area

News Summary

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for several counties in the Midlands, including Calhoun, Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee, Orangeburg, and Sumter, until 9 PM. Residents are warned of damaging winds, large hail, and flash flooding. The National Weather Service predicts scattered thunderstorms throughout the day, with a high temperature near 90°F and increased rain chances in the evening. Safety precautions are advised during this severe weather event.

Columbia, SC – Severe Thunderstorm Watch Issued for Midlands

A Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been issued for Calhoun, Clarendon, Kershaw, Lee, Orangeburg, and Sumter Counties until 9 PM this evening. Residents are advised to be on alert as damaging winds with gusts reaching up to 60 mph, isolated large hail, and the potential for flash flooding are expected.

The National Weather Service has forecasted variable clouds with scattered thunderstorms moving through the Midlands region today. The high temperature is projected to be near 90°F, with winds coming from the south at 5 to 10 mph. As the afternoon progresses, the chance of rain will rise to 40%, with heavy thunderstorms anticipated later in the evening. After midnight, the weather is expected to change to cloudy skies, with a low temperature around 72°F and a 60% chance of rain.

Safety Precautions

As storms develop, residents are encouraged to take safety precautions. Moving to an interior room is advised, and outdoor activities should be minimized during thunderstorms to avoid lightning risks. Annually, lightning strikes the United States approximately 25 million times, resulting in around 20 fatalities. Given the severity of the impending weather, extra caution is necessary, especially in areas prone to flash flooding and strong winds.

Additionally, it is essential to maintain safe driving distances during heavy rainfall, remain cautious around drainage areas, and ensure visibility while driving or walking during storm conditions.

Upcoming Events in Columbia

While severe weather is a concern, residents can mark their calendars for several events in the Columbia area. The Jasper Project will host the Degenerate Art Project at Stormwater Studios from July 9-12, 2025. This event promises to showcase intriguing art displays and encourage community engagement in the local art scene.

On July 12-13, 2025, the Bierkeller in Columbia’s CanalSide development will celebrate Bratfest, offering an array of food and entertainment for families and friends. Meanwhile, music fans will have the opportunity to enjoy the Nashville Nights concert series with Nashville-based singer-songwriter Michael Haney, who will bring his talents to the local audience.

Art enthusiasts can also visit the Columbia Museum of Art, which features galleries showcasing works from local artists, South Carolina talents, as well as internationally renowned creators. The museum offers a rich exploration of art that caters to a variety of tastes and interests.

Environmental Notes

In addition to the storm watch, avid nature observers reported that purple martins are currently being spotted over Lake Murray, reminding residents of the diverse wildlife present in the Columbia area. As summer progresses, these birds often become a common sight in this region.

Conclusion

As the Midlands prepares for potential severe weather today, residents are urged to stay updated and follow safety guidelines to ensure their protection. The local community can also look forward to an engaging lineup of cultural events scheduled in the coming days, providing opportunities for enjoyment amid the stormy forecast.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE LEXINGTON WRITER

The LEXINGTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELexington.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Lexington, Fayette County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Woodland Art Fair, Crave Food and Music Festival, and Railbird Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like Commerce Lexington and Blue Grass Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in education, manufacturing, and technology that power the local economy such as University of Kentucky, Toyota Motor Manufacturing, and Lexmark. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBowlingGreen.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.

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