COLUMBIA, S.C. — Rain and thunderstorms are expected on Wednesday afternoon and evening across the Midlands. Although widespread heavy rain is not expected, scattered storms could produce localized heavy rain, damaging wind, and frequent lightning. An isolated tornado cannot be ruled out.
A strong cold front is moving through the eastern half of the country. On Tuesday, there were several reports of wind damage in Florida and along the Gulf Coast from storms that developed in the milder air ahead of the approaching front. While severe weather has not been widespread with this approaching front, a few storms have produced tornado warnings in the deep south, mainly in Mississippi.
On Wednesday morning, the Storm Prediction Center issued a "Slight Risk" day for severe weather across the Midlands. This is a level 2 out of 5 on their risk scale and means a scattered severe storm is possible. Storm coverage will not be widespread, but there is a risk for winds in excess of 60 mph with some storms.
Wednesday afternoon will start with peeks of sunshine and warm temperatures, in the 80s across the central and eastern Midlands. Scattered storms could build with this daytime heating bringing a round of hit or miss strong storms in the afternoon. This first round of storms may begin as early as 2 pm in the western Midlands, and are most likely from 4 - 7 pm.
After sunset, more showers and storms are possible, but will again be scattered. Storms will still be capable of producing lightning and gusty winds through midnight. A cold front will arrive clearing us out overnight. Breezy conditions are expected throughout the day on Thursday with gusts exceeding 30 mph at times.
Loose objects should be secured or brought inside ahead of the storms on Wednesday. Lightweight objects may blow around early on Thursday, despite the dry weather. After Wednesday, no rain is expected into next week.
