News Summary
Severe thunderstorm warnings have been issued for Lexington and Richland counties in South Carolina, anticipating strong thunderstorms with wind gusts up to 55 mph. Residents are advised to seek shelter as the NWS warns of potential damaging winds and localized flooding. Key areas expected to be affected include Columbia, Lexington, and Irmo. Meteorologists indicate that severe weather could continue into Monday, with risks of tornadoes and heavy rainfall, with high temperatures averaging around 90 degrees throughout the week.
Lexington and Richland Counties Under Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Severe thunderstorm warnings have been issued for Lexington and Richland counties in South Carolina following a report from the National Weather Service (NWS) Columbia SC on Sunday at 7:09 p.m., signaling the likelihood of strong thunderstorms until 7:45 p.m. Residents in the affected areas should brace for wind gusts reaching up to 55 mph as these storms approach.
Storm Movement and Impacted Areas
As of 7:09 p.m., Doppler radar identified a strong thunderstorm located over Columbia Metro Airport and Oak Grove, moving north at a speed of 10 mph. Areas likely to experience significant impacts include major locations such as Columbia, Lexington, West Columbia, Cayce, Irmo, and Forest Acres, among others. Interstate highways in the path of potential severe weather include Interstate 126 (mile markers 0-3), Interstate 20 (mile markers 53-73), Interstate 26 (mile markers 99-116), and Interstate 77 (near mile marker 0).
Safety Precautions and Weather Forecast
Residents are advised to seek indoor shelter during the storm, as gusty winds may lead to downed tree limbs and unsecured objects becoming hazardous. In addition to high winds, the NWS has warned of torrential rainfall potentially causing localized flooding. The severe thunderstorm warning aligns with forecasts indicating continued severe weather conditions both Sunday and Monday, which include risks of damaging winds and heavy rainfall.
Earlier in the day, a severe thunderstorm warning was in effect for Columbia, Lexington, and West Columbia until 11:15 a.m., with wind gusts documented at 60 mph and potential for hail. The preceding night brought extensive damage, with winds reported at 60 mph, downing trees and utility poles and causing power outages affecting over 10,000 customers.
Anticipated Storm Conditions
Meteorologists have identified damaging winds as the primary threat for the remainder of Sunday, particularly between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Although the storms anticipated for Sunday may not be as widespread, those that do form are expected to be strong to severe, especially in areas located south of the Interstate 20 corridor toward the South Carolina-Georgia state line. Boaters navigating Lake Murray have been urged to find safe harbor due to the dangerous wind conditions impacting the region.
Looking Ahead to Severe Weather on Monday
Further severe weather is forecast for Monday, with the potential for tornadoes and continued damaging wind threats from multiple storm waves. Rain accumulations could reach up to one inch by Monday night as more storms pass through the area. As part of the ongoing pattern, chances of rain and thunderstorms are predicted daily, except for Wednesday, throughout the week. Residents should also prepare for high temperatures, averaging around 90 degrees during this period.
Local emergency management officials encourage all residents to stay informed about weather updates, take necessary precautions, and remain vigilant during the severe weather event.
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Additional Resources
- The State
- Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
- WACH
- Google Search: Severe Weather Columbia South Carolina
- PennLive
- Google Scholar: Severe Thunderstorm Warnings
- Patch
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Thunderstorms
- KOMU
- Google News: Columbia Weather Updates
