COLUMBIA, S.C. — Rain is on the way, and it could stick around for a few days. As we head into the weekend, the chance for showers and thunderstorms will gradually increase, especially by late Friday into Saturday.
This wet pattern is due to deep moisture moving into the area, bringing cooler temperatures and the potential for off-and-on rainfall. The moisture will linger over the region for several days, so it is a good idea to keep an umbrella handy.
For the rest of today and tonight, light showers are possible, especially this afternoon and into the evening. The air will feel more humid as moisture levels rise, and temperatures will stay relatively cool, with highs ranging from the upper 70s to low 80s, depending on your location. Some areas may experience breezy conditions, with wind gusts over 20 mph in certain spots.
Francine, the storm that made landfall in Louisiana, is moving northeast but weakening as it travels. However, it is still influencing the weather by pulling moisture from the Gulf of Mexico into the region.
Today, the best chance for showers will be in western parts of South Carolina and Georgia, where moisture is already building. Though rain will likely be light, scattered showers could pop up later in the day, especially as we head into tonight.
As we move into Friday and Saturday, rain is expected to become more widespread, with heavier rain possible late Friday into Saturday morning. Thunderstorms are possible during this time, but they are unlikely to be severe.
Moisture will continue to rise throughout Friday as the remnants of Francine and strong winds from the north bring scattered showers. While it is uncertain exactly how much rain will fall, we could see anywhere from a quarter of an inch to more than an inch in some areas. By Saturday, the system will start to weaken, leading to fewer showers.
There is a chance of rain for the South Carolina football game, but the forecast has improved over the past couple of days. If you are planning to go to the game, just be prepared for rain, just in case.
Looking ahead to Sunday and next week, rain chances will remain in the forecast. A low-pressure system may develop offshore, potentially increasing the chance for more showers. While the exact impact of this system is still uncertain, expect scattered showers on Sunday and into Monday, with a continued chance of thunderstorms.