Columbia, SC, August 15, 2025
News Summary
Columbia, SC should prepare for significant thunderstorms and heavy rain starting Friday afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Warning for multiple areas as river levels rise, heightening concerns for flash flooding. Residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roads and take precautions, including seeking higher ground if necessary. The situation may lead to delayed commutes and localized road closures, making it crucial to stay informed and safe during this severe weather event.
Severe Weather Alert for Columbia, SC: Flash Floods and Thunderstorms Looming
Columbia, SC, brace yourself! Heavy rain paired with thunderstorms is set to roll in Friday afternoon, and the forecast looks a tad ominous. The combination of intense rainfall has spurred concerns about flash flooding and the swelling of the river in our very own backyard, the Congaree River. This isn’t just your garden-variety rainstorm; it’s time to pay attention.
Flash Flooding Woes
As the rain begins its descent, residents are advised to prepare for possible localized road closures as water covers low-lying areas particularly in Richland and Lexington counties. The National Weather Service, looking out for our wellbeing, has issued a Flood Warning for the Congaree River at multiple points. Areas just outside our city—like Congaree National Park and the Carolina Eastman Facility—are already experiencing moderate flooding conditions.
Even if the rainfall eases by Saturday, river levels are expected to remain elevated into early next week. It’s a reminder that despite the weather calming down, the effects of the heavy rains will linger a while longer. The usual evening commute may face delays, so if you plan to hit the road, keep an eye on the conditions.
Potential Trouble Spots
It’s important to know that the storm doesn’t just bring rain. Reports from Doppler radar have shown thunderstorms dumping between 1.5 to 2 inches of rainfall already, with another inch in sight. Flash flooding is already happening in urban areas, highways, and several low-lying spots like Prosperity and Little Mountain. And let’s not forget about parts of Interstate 26, which may also face challenges due to these conditions.
Safety First!
While the rain looks serious, so does the caution we must take. The National Weather Service emphasizes that most flooding-related deaths occur in vehicles. Hence, it’s incredibly critical to avoid driving through flooded roadways. If you’re in a flood-prone area, now is the time to seek higher ground and evacuate if instructed. And don’t forget to lock up your homes and disconnect utilities if you have the time.
If you find yourself trapped by rising waters, seeking higher ground is key—particularly because water can be electrically charged. It’s better to be safe than sorry. With flash floods comes the risk of downed trees and utility poles, leading to power outages and perilous driving conditions. So, don’t take any risks during this unsettling weather.
Upcoming Weather Dynamics
Friday is also shaping up to be pretty toasty, with daily high temperatures soaring into the mid-90s. So amid the rain, let’s not forget about the extreme heat we’re facing. The heat index may even reach a sweltering 110 degrees in the Midlands. If you have outdoor plans, make sure to reconsider them, and stay hydrated!
What Lies Ahead
The storm threat is expected to ease by Saturday, which is a little light at the end of the tunnel! By Sunday, we should be greeted by sunny skies. However, if rainfall totals exceed expectations on Friday, additional advisories may be issued as necessary.
Please keep yourselves informed over these next few days as weather conditions continue to develop. Stay safe, stay dry, and help your neighbors out if you can!
FAQ Section
What precautions should I take to prepare for the flash floods?
Lock your homes, disconnect utilities if time permits, and seek higher ground. Avoid driving through floodwaters.
How will the thunderstorms affect travel in and around Columbia?
Travel may be impacted due to water covering low-lying areas, and delays are expected for the evening commute. Exercise caution if you must drive.
When can we expect the weather to improve?
The storm threat will likely lessen by Saturday, with clearer skies expected by Sunday.
Key Features of the Flash Flood Warning
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weather Condition | Heavy rain and thunderstorms |
| Impact Areas | Columbia, Richland, Lexington |
| Flash Flood Warning | In effect for several counties |
| Expected Rainfall | Up to 3 inches possible |
| Temperature Forecast | Mid-90s with heat index of 110 degrees |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Thunderstorms Hit Columbia, SC, Causing Concern for Flooding
Severe Flood Advisory Issued for South Carolina Counties
Severe Flooding Hits Mount Joy, Pennsylvania
Flood Advisory and Flash Flood Warning for Local Counties
Aiken County, SC Faces Flooding Risks Amid Severe Weather Advisory
Columbia to Host Public Meeting for Williams Street Extension Project
Severe Weather Warnings Issued for the Midwest and Plains
Severe Weather Alert: Strong Storms Expected in Columbia, SC
Severe Weather Threat: Tornadoes and Flash Floods for Lexington
Severe Weather Alert for Kentucky: Flood and Wind Advisory
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Severe Weather Alert
- Wikipedia: Flash Flood
- WLTX: Heat Advisory in South Carolina
- Google Search: Severe Weather Precautions
- Post and Courier: Rain and Thunderstorms in Midlands
- Google Scholar: Weather Impact on Travel
- The State: Weather Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- WIS TV: Weather Update and Alerts
- Google News: Flash Floods Columbia
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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