Powerful thunderstorms, blazing heat among severe weather threats in Midlands forecast
Blazing hot temperatures are not the only severe weather threat in Wednesday’s weather forecast for the Midlands. The National Weather Service warned that there’s the potential for powerful thunderstorms in the Columbia area.
Damaging winds and heavy rainfall are possible effects from the thunderstorms, forecasters said.
“It’s going to be another hot one out there today!” the National Weather Service said. “As temperatures heat up so will our chance for thunderstorms. A few could be strong to severe, producing mainly damaging winds.”
The greatest threat of severe weather is likely in the afternoon and into the evening, forecasters said. That’s for both the hottest temperatures and storms.
The greatest chances of storms will be near Columbia and in the immediate areas to the south and west, according to a hazardous weather outlook.
No warnings, watches, or advisories related to the storms have been issued yet, but that is subject to change.
Powerful winds could cause considerable damage to trees and branches, in addition to mobile homes, roofs and outbuildings. Damage to trees and branches creates the possibility of downed power lines and outages.
Thunderstorms can produce dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning.
There’s a 30% chance of rain, and up to a quarter inch is expected in Columbia, according to the forecast. More rainfall is possible in localized areas hit by thunderstorms.
The storms are expected to cause temperatures to drop, but that won’t be until after it is dangerously hot in the Midlands.
A heat advisory is in effect from 11 a.m. through 7 p.m., as heat index values up to 111 degrees are expected, according to the National Weather Service.
Hot temperatures of 99 to 103, combined with high humidity, could cause heat illnesses, forecasters said.
“Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles under any circumstances,” the National Weather Service said. “Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 911.”
Temperatures in Columbia are expected to stay in the high 90s and possibly the triple digits through Saturday, according to the forecast.
STAYING SAFE IN THE HEAT
The soaring temperatures mean a likely increase in heat-related injuries, which are avoidable. Here are recommendations to stay safe:
▪ Drink plenty of water
▪ Avoid heavy meals at lunch time
▪ Maintain a well balanced diet
▪ Wear appropriate clothing
▪ Use sunscreen
▪ Follow recommended work/rest cycles
▪ Keep areas well ventilated
▪ Schedule outdoor activities during the cooler part of the day
▪ Use the buddy system
▪ Monitor those at risk
SOURCE: South Carolina Emergency Management Division
This is a developing story, check back for updates.
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This story was originally published June 15, 2022 at 8:36 AM.
