News Summary
Columbia, South Carolina is under severe weather threats as the National Weather Service has issued multiple warnings for thunderstorms, potential tornadoes, and significant damage. Advisories remain active for Newberry and Fairfield counties, with forecasts predicting strong winds and hail. Residents are urged to seek shelter and stay informed as storms develop and torrential rains may cause flash flooding. Tornado sightings have been reported, maintaining heightened alertness in several counties. Safety remains a priority as conditions fluctuate throughout the evening.
Columbia, South Carolina is bracing for severe weather as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple severe thunderstorm warnings across the region, citing the potential for tornadoes and significant storm-related damage.
The latest thunderstorm warning was updated at 5:12 p.m. on Friday and is set to remain in effect until 6 p.m. Residents in Newberry and Fairfield counties should prepare for strong thunderstorms capable of producing wind gusts up to 50 mph and hail measuring up to half an inch in diameter. As of 5:12 p.m., Doppler radar confirmed a strong thunderstorm was 7 miles west of Blair, moving northeast at a speed of 25 mph.
Specific locations impacted by this alert include Blair, Henderson Island, Maybington Fire Station, US-176, SC-34 Crossroads, and the Feasterville Fire Station. Travelers on Interstate 26 should also be cautious, as conditions will be affected between mile markers 71 and 75. The NWS advises anyone outdoors to seek shelter in a sturdy building to ensure safety from potential storm hazards.
Data indicates that approximately 25 million lightning strikes occur across the United States each year, primarily during the summer months, leading to about 20 fatalities annually. Residents should remain aware of the threat of hydroplaning, which can occur when water builds up in front of vehicle tires and causes loss of control on wet roads.
In a subsequent development, a severe thunderstorm warning for Aiken, Edgefield, and Saluda counties was issued at 6:20 p.m., lasting until 6:45 p.m. These storms are expected to produce quarter-sized hail of up to one inch and wind gusts reaching 70 mph. At the time of the warning, Doppler radar indicated a severe thunderstorm over Johnston, moving northeast at 15 mph.
The severe weather situation is anticipated to lead to hail damage affecting vehicles and possible destruction of trees and mobile homes. Key areas impacted include Edgefield, Saluda, Johnston, Ridge Spring, and Saluda County Airport. Furthermore, the torrential rainfall associated with these storms could result in flash flooding. The public should report any hail, damaging winds, or flooding when safe to do so.
Tornadic activity is also a pressing concern for the Columbia area, with concurrent tornado warnings and watches issued for Sunday morning. A tornado warning was effective until 8:15 a.m., with a severe thunderstorm warning in effect until 8:30 a.m. Strong wind gusts of up to 60 mph are forecasted for the region during this period. The tornado watch is set to last until 2 p.m. for several counties, including Richland, Lexington, Kershaw, Sumter, Calhoun, Clarendon, Lee, and Orangeburg.
A tornado has been sighted near Dreher Island, moving towards Lake Murray, adding to the severe weather risks. A strong cold front is anticipated to bring localized flash flooding and gusty winds. Additionally, a lake wind advisory has been issued for the Midlands until 8 p.m., indicating hazardous conditions for small craft on local waterways.
Forecasters predict rainfall totals of up to half an inch, with localized amounts potentially higher in certain areas. However, looking ahead, the weather is expected to calm down after the storms pass, with the following week bringing dry and warm conditions, with possible high temperatures reaching up to 78 degrees.
Residents are urged to stay informed and prepared as these severe weather conditions unfold, keeping safety as the top priority in the face of potential storms and related hazards.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: South Carolina Storm Forecast
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Google Search: Columbia South Carolina Weather
- ABC Columbia: Storms Through the Midlands
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- Garden & Gun: Southeast Storm Season
- Google News: Severe Storms Columbia South Carolina
- WISTV: Severe Storms Possible
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
The NEWBERRY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewberry.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Newberry, Newberry 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 the Newberry Opera House performances, Newberry Arts Fest, and the Newberry County Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Newberry County Chamber of Commerce and the Newberry Museum, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and agriculture that power the local economy such as Amick Farms and Newberry Mills. 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.
