Damaging winds, severe hail and tornadoes possible in the Midlands, forecast shows
A hazardous weather outlook was issued for the Midlands by the National Weather Service as Wednesday’s forecast shows the possibility of severe weather in the Columbia area.
Heavy rain storms are expected, and severe weather effects including damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes are possible, according to the National Weather Service.
There’s the greatest chance the Midlands will experience widespread rain showers and a few strong to severe thunderstorms, the National Weather Service said.
While there might be some showers and thunderstorms in the morning, the biggest threat for severe weather in the Midlands is between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m., according to the National Weather Service.
Most of the Midlands is currently at a slight risk for severe weather. But the area east of Interstate 20 is the most likely to be affected by the storms, the National Weather Service said.
No advisories, warnings or watches have been issued for the Midlands.
Instability of the weather system, morning rain, and cloud cover could all change the impact of the weather. But the National Weather Service said “conditions are trending more favorable for severe weather.”
Powerful winds and tornadoes could cause considerable damage to trees and branches, in addition to mobile homes, roofs and outbuildings. Vehicles would also be under siege in the case of a tornado.
Damage to trees and branches creates the possibility of downed power lines and outages.
There’s a 70% chance of rain in the forecast, and up to a quarter inch of precipitation could fall. The amounts of rain could be heavier locally, according to the National Weather Service.
The thunderstorms can produce dangerous cloud to ground lightning, according to the National Weather Service.
“If you have outdoor plans, make sure to check the weather before heading outside and have a way to receive alerts while you are outdoors,” the National Weather Service said. “When thunder roars, go indoors!”
Showers are expected to continue through the weekend, with more heavy rain possible on Friday. Temperatures are forecast to cool off after these storms move out of the Columbia area Wednesday, with thermometers ranging between the 40s and 50s on Thursday.
There was an ironic impact of the severe weather forecast. The South Carolina Emergency Management Division postponed the annual statewide tornado drill because of the potential for actual severe weather. The tornado drill is now expected to be held on Friday.
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
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This story was originally published March 9, 2022 at 7:24 AM.
