Strong storms expected in the Midlands, more threatening weather forecast Monday
Powerful storms are expected to hit the Columbia area of South Carolina Sunday, and even more severe weather is forecast Monday in the Midlands, according to the National Weather Service.
The threat of strong to severe storms exists from 3-8 p.m. Sunday, National Weather Service meteorologists said in a morning briefing. Hail, damaging winds (60 mph) and isolated tornadoes are possible Sunday, according to the briefing.
“Monday’s threat is much more robust across the entire area,” the National Weather Service said.
The main threats Monday will be damaging to destructive wind (75 mph-plus) gusts and several tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service. Some of the tornadoes could be as powerful as an EF2 (111-135 mph) or even stronger, meteorologists said in the briefing.
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.
Multiple tornadoes were recorded in the Midlands last week when powerful storms hit the region March 12. Along with a tornado of unknown strength that moved over the Lexington County portion of Lake Murray, EF0 strength tornadoes were confirmed in Richland, Saluda and Bamberg counties, according to the National Weather Service.
Large hail, at least 1-inch, is also possible both Sunday and Monday. That sized hail could damage cars and roofs, the National Weather Service said.
The greatest threat of severe weather hitting the Midlands on Monday is between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., according to the briefing.
While the chances of severe weather are widespread across the area, the briefing shows that northeast portion of the Midlands is forecast to feel the most powerful effects.
As of 10:45 a.m. Sunday, no warnings, watches or advisories had been issued for the Columbia area. That could change as the storms get closer both days.
Up to half an inch of rain is possible Sunday afternoon and into the evening, the forecast shows. More than half an inch of rain is possible Monday, when there’s a 90% chance of precipitation, according to the forecast.
Localized amounts could be higher, especially during thunderstorms.
Temperatures are expected to reach highs in the mid 70s during the storms on both Sunday and Monday, the forecast shows.
When the rain and powerful winds move beyond the area, temperatures are forecast to drop considerably. Thermometers could fall below the freezing point overnight Monday into Tuesday morning, as a low of 31 degrees is possible in Columbia, according to the forecast.
A freeze watch is the only watch, warning or advisory currently issued by the National Weather Service. It’s scheduled to go into effect Monday night and run through Tuesday morning.
The temperature will barely reach the 50s Tuesday before hitting lows in the 20s and 30s on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, the forecast shows. By the end of the week, and over next weekend, thermometers will rise into the 70s under mostly sunny conditions.
After the storm
If you are impacted by severe weather, there are a few important things to remember:
- Listen to local officials
- Remain updated on the forecast
- Contact loved ones by text or social media
- Use flashlights, not candles
- Be mindful of debris and downed power lines
Source: National Weather Service Columbia Office
BEHIND THE STORY
MOREThis is a breaking news story
In a breaking news situation, facts can be unclear and the situation may still be developing. The State is trying to get important information to the public as quickly and accurately as possible. This story will be updated as more information becomes available, and some information in this story may change as the facts become clearer. Refresh this page later for more updated information.
