Columbia, S.C. – Scattered thunderstorms are expected to bring heavy rain and gusty winds to central South Carolina on Tuesday, with the heat index rising to 101°F. These storms, likely to develop between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., could complicate travel plans ahead of the holiday. Temperatures will reach around 91°F, with high humidity creating conditions for downpours and lightning.
Storms and Travel Disruptions on Tuesday
The National Weather Service in Columbia predicts that rain chances will increase to 60% after 11 a.m., with the strongest thunderstorms expected to develop in the early afternoon, particularly near the I-20 and I-26 corridors. Localized downpours could bring half an inch of rain in some areas, leading to brief flooding in low-lying streets in Columbia, Lexington, and Sumter.
Winds could gust up to 20 mph as storms move through between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m., potentially affecting midday commutes or outdoor events. Drivers should avoid traveling through standing water, and it’s advised to keep mobile devices charged in case of power interruptions.
Drier and Hotter Weather Ahead
By Wednesday, drier air will move in, bringing a mix of sun and storms, with highs in the upper 80s. The weather will turn sunny and hot on Thursday and Friday, with temperatures reaching 93°F and 95°F respectively. There’s no rain expected on Friday night, making it ideal for Independence Day fireworks. The weekend will continue to be sunny and warm, with highs in the mid-90s on Saturday and Sunday.
Columbia 6-Day Weather Outlook (July 1–6)
| Day | Weather | High Temperature | Additional Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday (July 1) | Showers and storms likely after 11 a.m. | 91°F | – |
| Wednesday (July 2) | Storms taper off, then mostly sunny | 88°F | – |
| Thursday (July 3) | Sunny and hot | 93°F | – |
| Friday (July 4) | Mostly clear | 95°F | – |
| Saturday (July 5) | Sunny | 93°F | – |
| Sunday (July 6) | Mostly sunny | 94°F | – |
Tuesday’s storms will bring heavy rain and gusty winds, creating potential disruptions to travel and outdoor activities. However, drier and hotter conditions are expected midweek, with sunny skies for the Fourth of July, perfect for fireworks and outdoor celebrations.
