COLUMBIA, S.C. — This third weekend in December, a robust area of low pressure is moving northeast along the coast. Today (Sunday), breezy conditions are expected, along with heavy rainfall.
This area of low pressure intensified in the Gulf of Mexico and gradually moved northeastward. Light showers began late Saturday, followed by heavier rain starting in the early hours of Sunday. By daybreak on Sunday, widespread rainfall is expected across the entire Midlands area, with moderate to heavy rain persisting.
By midday, many locations in most of the Midlands had already received over 2 inches of rainfall, with isolated areas cresting over 3 inches total. The rainfall is forecasted to continue through this evening in many parts of our viewing area.
5 pm update - Most areas excluding Newberry, Winnsboro, and Camden have received over 2 inches of rain. The low pressure system is expected to continue moving northward. As this occurs, wind speeds will strengthen.
Locally strong wind gusts are being brought down to the surface by heavy rain bands. Winds will increase in the evening with gusts around 30-40 mph range. Isolated gusts could exceed 40 mph nearing 50. These winds are capable of causing power outages and tree damage.
Forecast models suggest total rainfall amounts in the range of 1 to nearly 3 inches, with locally higher amounts possible. The WPC places all of the Midlands at risk of excessive rainfall for all of Sunday. Eastern Midlands has a slight risk (2/4) but a marginal risk (1/4) elsewhere.
Skies will clear early Monday morning, with breezy conditions remaining. You can expect gusts on Monday from the west around 10-15 mph.
