COLUMBIA, S.C. — Prepare for triple-digit heat this week. Each afternoon and evening, we can expect isolated or scattered showers and thunderstorms. The chances of rain will increase towards the end of the work week.
Today, the heat index could reach around 106° in some locations. This remains just below the heat advisory criteria, which are heat index values greater than 108 degrees. Actual air temperatures will be in the upper 90s to nearly 100 degrees.
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.
Isolated afternoon storms are expected, particularly in the eastern areas of South Carolina. There is a marginal risk of severe weather, with damaging wind gusts being the primary threat.
The hot weather will persist with heat index values between 100 and 105 degrees, especially in the southeast Midlands this week. The northern Midlands might experience slightly drier conditions.
An upper-level trough will move from the Mississippi Valley into the Carolinas and Georgia by Thursday, keeping the chance of scattered afternoon thunderstorms in the forecast.