News Summary
Severe thunderstorms and tornado warnings are in effect for Columbia and surrounding regions this morning. Residents are advised to seek shelter as powerful winds and thunderstorms pose significant risks. The National Weather Service reports that conditions could lead to dangerous weather with potential tornado formations expected. The warnings extend through multiple counties, emphasizing the need for precaution and awareness of local weather updates.
Columbia
Severe thunderstorms and tornado warnings have been issued for Columbia and surrounding areas as the weather forecast predicts potentially dangerous conditions this morning and into the afternoon. The National Weather Service has placed a tornado warning in effect until 8 a.m., while a severe thunderstorm warning is set to expire at 8:30 a.m.
Today’s weather conditions are expected to remain mostly cloudy this morning, with thunderstorms developing in the afternoon. Some of these storms may reach severe levels. The anticipated high temperature for today is forecasted at 82°F, with winds expected to blow from the west-southwest at speeds ranging from 10 to 20 mph, contributing to an overall 70% chance of rain.
Warnings indicate that powerful winds could reach up to 60 mph in Columbia, Lexington, Cayce, and West Columbia; while there is a small chance for wind gusts to exceed 74 mph in the eastern Midlands, an area where tornado formation is more likely. The tornado warning also extends to areas including Irmo and Chapin, underscoring the widespread potential for dangerous weather.
As per the latest updates, severe thunderstorms are expected to impact specific locations such as South Congaree, Springdale, and Red Bank around 7:40 a.m. These storms are anticipated to move toward West Columbia, Gaston, Pine Ridge, Oak Grove, Columbia Metropolitan Airport, and the South Carolina State Farmer’s Market shortly after, by approximately 7:45 a.m.
The National Weather Service has strongly advised individuals located within the tornado warning areas to seek shelter immediately. Ideal shelter locations include basements or interior rooms of sturdy buildings. Those who are outside, in mobile homes, or vehicles are urged to find substantial cover to protect themselves from flying debris that could result from severe winds and potential tornadoes.
In regards to damage, the forecast indicates that winds, combined with storm activity, may affect trees, branches, mobile homes, rooftops, outbuildings, and automobiles, leading to significant property damage. A wind advisory is in effect for all of the Midlands until 7 p.m. today, which highlights ongoing concerns for severe weather.
Additional counties may also be impacted by the severe weather, including perspectives from Richmond County, as well as Fairfield, Newberry, and Saluda counties. Storm effects are anticipated to linger in the Columbia area through 11 a.m. and may extend into the early afternoon hours.
For today’s rainfall expectations, there is a 100% chance of precipitation, although significant amounts are not predicted, with estimates suggesting up to three-quarters of an inch may occur. However, localized amounts in certain areas could be higher. Additionally, periods of pea-sized hail could accompany severe weather phenomena.
As conditions develop throughout the day, residents are encouraged to stay updated through local weather alerts and take necessary precautions to ensure safety during this severe weather event.
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Additional Resources
- The State: Severe Weather Update
- Wikipedia: Tornado Warning
- Weather.com: Cayce, SC
- Google Search: Severe Weather Columbia SC
- Post and Courier: Hurricane Season Forecast
- Google Scholar: Tornado Safety
- The State: Weather News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Thunderstorm
- WLTX: How to Report Power Outages
- Google News: Tornado Preparedness
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.
