Columbia, South Carolina, is in for a stormy Wednesday night, with strong thunderstorms expected to disrupt travel and outdoor activities just ahead of the July 4th weekend. According to the National Weather Service, storms are expected to develop across the Midlands after 11 a.m. on Wednesday, bringing heavy rain, lightning, and the potential for flash flooding.
Stormy Weather on Wednesday
The greatest threat will come between 8 p.m. and midnight on Wednesday, when the heaviest rain and strongest thunderstorms are likely to hit Columbia. Some locations could receive more than 2 inches of rain, particularly along I-26 and U.S. Route 1. This could lead to flash flooding, making evening driving hazardous. Travelers should be prepared for wet and slippery roads.
Tuesday evening may also bring isolated storms before 2 a.m. Wednesday, but the main concern will shift to Wednesday night. Residents should secure outdoor items to prevent them from being damaged by high winds, charge their devices in case of power outages, and avoid low-lying roads after dark to stay safe.
Thursday’s Weather and 4th of July Outlook
Once the storms clear out on Thursday morning, the skies should briefly clear, with mostly sunny weather and a high near 93°F. However, there is still a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms, so keep an eye on the weather if you plan to be outdoors. Fortunately, Friday, July 4th, is looking like a perfect day for outdoor celebrations. The weather will be sunny and hot, with highs reaching near 95°F, ideal for fireworks and Independence Day festivities.
Saturday and Sunday will continue the trend of sunny, hot weather, with highs around 93°F and 92°F, respectively. It will be a perfect weekend for those who enjoy summer heat and clear skies.
If you’re planning outdoor activities in Columbia this week, be ready for strong storms and potential flooding on Wednesday night, which could affect evening travel and celebrations. After that, the weather will improve, bringing plenty of sunshine and hot temperatures for the 4th of July weekend. Be sure to stay weather-aware, especially if you’re traveling on Wednesday evening, and enjoy the sunny days that follow.
