News Summary

Columbia, South Carolina, is experiencing severe weather, including tornado and thunderstorm warnings. Residents are advised to stay alert as the storm brings risks of flash flooding, power outages, and dangerous winds. A tornado was spotted near Lake Murray, urging locals to remain indoors. With a high chance of rain and strong winds expected, officials stress the importance of preparation and staying updated. After the storm, warmer weather is anticipated later in the week.

Severe Weather Strikes Columbia, South Carolina!

Columbia, South Carolina, is bracing up for a wild day of weather as both a severe thunderstorm warning and a tornado warning were issued early Sunday morning. As the storm clouds rolled in, residents found themselves navigating through the chaos, with a strong sense of urgency surrounding the situation.

Warnings in Effect!

The tornado warning was declared effective until 8:15 a.m., with the severe thunderstorm warning lingering until 8:30 a.m. However, even after these warnings expired, the threat of severe weather didn’t disappear, lingering over Columbia throughout Sunday afternoon. The National Weather Service wasn’t taking chances, warning folks to stay alert for severe weather possibilities all the way until 3 p.m., with a breeze that would keep everyone on their toes.

Widespread Tornado Watches

Richland County and Lexington County residents were among those under both the tornado warning and a tornado watch that remains in effect until 2 p.m.. Nearly every county in the Midlands felt the pressure with the tornado watch extending to Kershaw, Sumter, Calhoun, Clarendon, Lee, and Orangeburg. The situation was heating up especially for the eastern portion of the Midlands where the tornado threat saw an uptick.

Spotted Tornado!

7:43 a.m., making its way towards the dam at Lake Murray. This report by the Newberry County Sheriff’s Office had residents on high alert, emphasizing the need to stay indoors and keep safe until the storm passed.

What Else Is at Risk?

But that’s not all folks; with strong cold fronts in the mix, residents are also facing threats of strong-to-severe thunderstorms, localized flash flooding, and gusty winds. Winds could reach frightening speeds of up to 60 mph in the Columbia area. Such winds can create dangerous conditions, posing substantial risks to trees, mobile homes, roofs, and outbuildings, not to mention potential vehicle hazards in the path of a tornado.

Power Outages Expected

One of the biggest concerns in such severe weather is the potential for power line outages. With strong winds likely to knock down trees and branches, residents are advised to prepare for possible power outages as crews work to restore electricity once the storms pass.

Wind Advisory!

A lake wind advisory has been put in place for the entire Midlands until 8 p.m. Winds are expected to gust up to 40 mph, creating hazardous conditions on local lakes. Anyone planning a day of fishing or boating should think twice before hitting the water with these winds whipping around.

Stay Prepared!

As for rainfall, Columbia is looking at a 90% chance of rain on Sunday, with possible rainfall totals reaching up to half an inch. However, keep an eye out; localized amounts could be even higher, leading to additional safety concerns.

What’s Next?

Once the rain takes a break, residents can look forward to much warmer and dry weather in the following days! Temperatures are expected to range from the 60s to a possible high of 78 degrees on Wednesday. So, once the storms roll through, it might just be time to enjoy some sunshine!

Local officials stress the importance of staying updated on weather conditions and being prepared for whatever Mother Nature may throw our way. Make sure to keep your weather apps handy and stay tuned for more updates as the day unfolds!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• The State
• Wikipedia: Severe Thunderstorm Warning
• Columbia Missourian
• Google Search: Storm Damage Missouri
• AccuWeather
• Google Scholar: Tornado Impact on Communities
• Post and Courier
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado