COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Midlands is experiencing a quiet period of weather, with high pressure bringing drier conditions and near-normal temperatures through Thursday. Temperatures will heat up towards the end of the workweek and into the weekend with extremely hot and humid conditions.
Today will be partly cloudy and seasonable. Highs will be in the upper 80s to lower 90s. Tonight, a few clouds will be possible. Temperatures are forecast to drop to the middle to upper 60s.
The weather Thursday will mirror Wednesday's conditions, characterized by warm and dry air. Scattered clouds will pass through, and occasionally gusty east winds are expected in the afternoon.
The chance of organized rain remains low. High temperatures are expected to reach the upper 80s to around 90 degrees. Overnight, skies will remain mostly clear, and temperatures will again fall into the mid to upper 60s.
High pressure will continue to dominate, providing stable and uneventful weather through Thursday. A persistent easterly flow will keep the best moisture south of the region. However, by Friday, moisture levels will begin to increase slightly.
There will be a chance of some isolated showers and storms on Friday afternoon. Temperatures will remain around the seasonal average, with highs in the lower to middle. Heat index values will be in the middle to possibly the upper 90s.
The heat and humidity will be the big story on Saturday and through at least Tuesday. High temperatures will be in the middle to upper 90s. The humidity will make it feel even hotter. Heat index values will likely be in the triple digits.
On Saturday and Sunday, there will be a few showers and thunderstorms, but most of the activity will be isolated.
Heat Safety Tips According to the National Weather Service:
- Slow down. Strenuous activities should be reduced, eliminated, or rescheduled to the coolest time of the day. Individuals at risk should stay in the coolest available place, not necessarily indoors.
- Dress for summer. Lightweight, light-colored clothing reflects heat and sunlight, and helps your body maintain normal temperatures.
- Foods (like proteins) that increase metabolic heat production also increase water loss.
- Drink plenty of water or non-alcoholic fluids. Your body needs water to keep cool. Drink plenty of fluids, even if you don't feel thirsty.
- Do not drink alcoholic beverages.
- Spend more time in air-conditioned places. Air conditioning in homes and other buildings significantly reduces heat hazards. If you cannot afford an air conditioner, spending some time each day (during hot weather) in an air-conditioned environment affords some protection.