A storm system that wreaked havoc in other southern states went relatively easy on the South Carolina Midlands, though still knocking down trees and putting thousands in the dark.

SCE&G reported that as of 7:10 a.m., about 1,618 customers statewide were without power from about 60 incidents. Most of those, 1,059, were in Richland County, with another 380 in Lexington County.

Traffic light problems were causing headaches for commuters, most notably on Monticello Road, where lights were out early in the morning at Interstate 20 and Blue Ridge Terrace.

Kelly Davis