Columbia, S.C. – After a string of calm and warm days across South Carolina, residents in the Midlands should be prepared for a brief interruption in the form of scattered thunderstorms on Saturday afternoon and evening. According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, storm chances will develop after 2 p.m. Saturday, with rain lingering into the night before drier conditions return to close out the holiday weekend.
Warm and Muggy Conditions Ahead of Storms
Highs will remain in the mid to upper 80s through the end of the week, keeping conditions warm and muggy. Thursday and Friday will both feature mostly sunny skies, making for pleasant outdoor weather. However, the build-up of heat and moisture will set the stage for isolated thunderstorms by Saturday afternoon.
Saturday Storm Potential
Forecasters place the chance of rain at 30 percent on Saturday, with showers and thunderstorms possible after mid-afternoon. While rainfall totals should remain light—generally under a tenth of an inch—any isolated storms that form could produce brief heavy downpours and dangerous lightning.
The greatest impacts are expected across the Midlands, including Columbia, Lexington, and Cayce, where late-day outdoor events and travel could see brief disruptions. Winds are forecast to remain calm, minimizing the risk of severe storm development, but lightning remains a concern for those attending evening gatherings or sporting events.
Sunny Stretch Returns for Labor Day
Conditions will improve quickly after the Saturday evening storms move through. Sunday and Labor Day Monday are expected to be mostly sunny, with highs near 85° Sunday and around 83° Monday, offering ideal weather for barbecues, travel, and outdoor celebrations. Clear skies and seasonable temperatures will carry into early next week, with no major hazards expected.
Five Day Forecast for Columbia, S.C.
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high 88°
- Friday: Mostly sunny, high 88°, low 67°
- Saturday: 30% chance of afternoon storms, high 86°
- Sunday: Mostly sunny, high 85°
- Labor Day (Monday): Mostly sunny, high 83°
Community Advice
Residents planning outdoor activities Saturday should keep an eye on the sky and have indoor alternatives ready in case storms pop up. Fortunately, widespread storm activity is not expected, and weather conditions will quickly rebound for a pleasant and safe holiday weekend across South Carolina.
