COLUMBIA, S.C. — The WLTX Weather Team has issued a News19 Weather Impact Alert Day for Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday due to expected high heat index values.
Dangerous heat index values, or "feels like temperatures," are forecast to potentially lead to heat advisories for South Carolina. Heat index values are expected to climb to 105 degrees today, but it will feel even hotter Thursday and Friday. Heat index values are forecast to climb to near 110 on both days. A heat advisory will likely be issued for the Midlands for the last two days of the workweek.
Criteria from the National Weather Service call for a heat advisory when the heat index values reach between 108 and 112 degrees for at least two hours or more. An excessive heat warning is issued when the heat index is 113 degrees or higher for at least two hours.
A few showers and storms will be possible this afternoon and this evening. If a strong or severe storm were to develop today, the greatest threat would be damaging wind gusts. High temperatures will be in the middle to upper 90s.
Some thunderstorms are possible Thursday and Friday. The greatest threat, if severe storms form, will be damaging wind gusts. Air temperatures are forecast to hit the upper 90s and nearly 100 degrees.
Heat Safety Tips
- Stay Hydrated and Cool: Drink plenty of fluids and stay in an air-conditioned room. Avoid being outside in the sun for extended periods. Check on relatives and neighbors to ensure they are safe and comfortable.
- Protect Children and Pets: Never leave young children or pets in unattended vehicles. Car interiors can reach deadly temperatures within minutes.
- Outdoor Precautions: When outside, wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing. Try to limit strenuous activities to the early morning or evening. Be alert to signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and act immediately if symptoms appear.
- Workplace Safety: The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) advises taking frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas during outdoor work. If the heat has affected someone you are around, move them quickly to a cool, shaded area. A heat stroke is a medical emergency; call 911 immediately.