Stormy Weather Hits Columbia, South Carolina
Good morning, Columbia! If you stepped outside today, you likely felt the strong winds and maybe even heard the rumble of thunder in the distance. September 27th has kicked off with a wild weather combo that’s set to keep us all on our toes.
Thunderstorms Rolling In
This morning, we experienced thunderstorms that have ranged from mild to heavy. The weather forecast is predicting a remarkable total of 2 to 3 inches of rain throughout the day with a 100% chance of precipitation. It’s the kind of day best spent indoors with a cup of coffee and a good book, if you can swing it!
Winds Picking Up Speed
As if the rain isn’t enough, wind speeds are reaching between 25 to 40 mph, gusting and swaying trees around like they’re dancing to a heavy beat. By this afternoon, those winds should mellow a bit, settling to a much more manageable 10 to 20 mph. But still, make sure to keep an eye on those falling branches!
Take Precautions While Traveling
The South Carolina Department of Transportation has closed off Forest Drive, particularly the area where the bridge goes over Gills Creek, due to rising water levels. They’ve acted out of an abundance of caution to keep all of us safe. If you’re in the area, do remember that the bridge will *not* reopen until it’s safe. You can check for updates on their website and social media.
Stay Safe and Dry
For those who must venture out, the SCDOT is urging everyone to stay inside as much as possible. But if you absolutely need to drive, take it slow! Keep an eye out for road signs and construction crews and, most importantly, never attempt to drive through standing water. It’s really not worth the risk.
Afternoon and Nighttime Outlook
As we look toward the afternoon, expect a shift in the weather from thunderstorms to cloudy skies. The temperature will peak around a warm 81°F, which is a bit surprising given the stormy morning we’ve had! Tonight, we’ll drop down to a low of around 64°F, and the winds will ease to about 5 to 10 mph coming from the southwest. It looks like we might get a nice break from the soaking after all!
Keep Those Spirits Up!
Even though today’s weather might be a bit dreary, it’s still a perfect excuse to cozy up and enjoy some time with family or dive into your latest show. Share your rain stories or send us your best indoor activities to try while waiting for the skies to clear! Remember, everyone—stay dry out there and check on your neighbors if it’s safe to do so.
Stay Updated!
As the weather continues to change, we’ll keep you posted. So grab that umbrella, keep your phones charged, and stay tuned for any new announcements regarding weather updates or road conditions in our beautiful Columbia, SC! Here’s hoping for a safe and sound remainder of the day.
