Columbia, SC, September 16, 2025
News Summary
Columbia and Lexington Counties are under severe weather alerts, including a tornado warning effective until 8 a.m. on Wednesday. Powerful winds of up to 60 mph are expected, prompting authorities to advise residents to seek shelter. The storm’s impacts are projected to affect the region until late morning, with additional risks of damage and power outages. Residents are urged to stay updated as conditions evolve.
Columbia, SC Faces Severe Weather Alerts Including Tornado Warning
Severe weather warnings have been issued for Columbia and Lexington Counties, including a tornado warning set to last until 8 a.m. on Wednesday morning. The accompanying severe thunderstorm warning will expire at 8:30 a.m., causing widespread concern among residents.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has reported that powerful winds in the area could reach up to 60 mph, with the possibility of wind gusts exceeding 74 mph in eastern Midlands regions. Along with Columbia and Lexington, the tornado warning extends to Irmo and Chapin, with the storms expected to impact neighborhoods such as South Congaree, Springdale, and Red Bank around 7:40 a.m.
These storms are predicted to move toward West Columbia, Gaston, Pine Ridge, Oak Grove, the Columbia Metropolitan Airport, and the South Carolina State Farmer’s Market shortly thereafter, by approximately 7:45 a.m. Authorities urge individuals in the tornado warning area to seek shelter, advising that a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building is the safest option during such conditions. Those outdoors, in mobile homes, or vehicles are recommended to locate substantial shelters to protect against flying debris.
The potential for significant damage from these winds includes destruction of trees, mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings, alongside damage to vehicles. Furthermore, downed trees and branches increase the risk for power outages due to downed lines. As a precaution, a wind advisory covering all of Midlands is also in effect, valid until 7 p.m. on Wednesday.
Richland County and surrounding areas—including Fairfield, Newberry, and Saluda counties—may also experience the fallout from these dangerous storms. The adverse weather conditions are expected to linger through the Columbia area until at least 11 a.m. on Wednesday, with potential continuation into the early afternoon. Regular wind speeds can reach up to 25 mph, and gusts could nearly double that rate.
In addition to strong winds, the NWS indicates that rain is virtually guaranteed, with a 100% chance of precipitation throughout the day, although significant rainfall totals are not anticipated. Up to three-quarters of an inch of rain is forecast, with localized amounts possibly being higher in some areas. Pea-sized hail could also accompany the severe weather warnings.
The situation is ongoing and developments will be monitored closely. Residents are advised to stay tuned for updates regarding the severe weather system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What areas are under a tornado warning?
The tornado warning includes Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, and Chapin.
When does the tornado warning expire?
The tornado warning is set to last until 8 a.m. on Wednesday.
What precautions should people take?
Individuals are advised to seek shelter in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Those outdoors or in mobile homes should find substantial shelter to avoid flying debris.
What kind of damage can be expected from the storm?
The storm could cause significant damage to trees, roofs, and vehicles, with risks of downed power lines leading to outages.
How long will the severe weather last?
Storm effects in the Columbia area are anticipated to persist until around 11 a.m. on Wednesday, possibly continuing into the afternoon.
Severe Weather Summary
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Tornado Warning | In effect until 8 a.m., includes Columbia, Lexington, Irmo, Chapin. |
| Severe Thunderstorm Warning | In effect until 8:30 a.m., with powerful winds expected. |
| Wind Gusts | Could exceed 74 mph in eastern Midlands. |
| Rain | 100% chance, up to 0.75 inches forecasted. |
| Wind Advisory | In effect until 7 p.m. on Wednesday. |
| Impact Duration | Severe weather effects expected until at least 11 a.m., possibly longer. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Times Union
- Wikipedia: Tornado Warning
- SILive
- Google Search: tornado warning Columbia
- KMIZ News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Weather
- KMBC
- Google News: tornado warning news
Author: STAFF HERE IRMO
The IRMO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIrmo.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Irmo, Lexington and Richland Counties, 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 the Irmo Okra Strut Festival, Harbison Community Events, and local sports tournaments at the Palmetto Health Credit Union Foundation Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Irmo Chapin Recreation Commission and the Lexington Chamber and Visitors Center, plus leading businesses in retail and healthcare that power the local economy such as Village at Sandhill and Lexington Medical Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
