News Summary
On March 5, Columbia, SC is preparing for severe weather warnings that include strong winds reaching up to 75 mph. Local school districts have adjusted schedules, with many closing schools or delaying start times. Officials urge residents to remain indoors during the storm to minimize risk. Following the storm, a temporary temperature spike to 73 degrees is expected, followed by cooler weather later in the week. Residents are reminded of weather safety and a tornado drill scheduled for March 7.
Columbia, SC: Severe Weather Prompts School Closures and Schedule Adjustments
Columbia is bracing itself for a tumultuous day on Wednesday, March 5, as severe weather is predicted to wreak havoc across the area. Residents are being prepared for strong winds that could sustain between 36 to 46 mph, with gusts potentially reaching a dizzying 75 mph. The weather service has issued an advisory that warns of these intense conditions from around 5 a.m. until 11 a.m., all while cautious eyes are watching for the possible development of isolated tornadoes in the eastern Midlands.
Though rain accumulation is projected to be relatively light at about half an inch, the forecast has raised concerns regarding the potential for significant damage to trees and power lines. Local officials are taking this threat seriously and are advising everyone to stay indoors as much as possible during the height of the storm.
School Districts React
- Orangeburg County School District: All schools are closed on March 5, with no athletic events or extracurricular activities occurring.
- Lexington County School District One: This district is also closing all schools, but they will allow afternoon extracurricular activities to continue. Employees are expected to report at 10 a.m. for professional development sessions.
- Lexington School District Four: A two-hour delay is in place, so students and staff should report to their schools two hours later than normal.
- Lexington-Richland School District Five: Implementing a two-hour delay with some schedule tweaks; breakfast will not be served but lunch will be available. New start times are 9:30 a.m. for elementary schools, 10:45 a.m. for middle schools, and 10:00 a.m. for high schools.
- Richland County School District Two: A two-hour delay has also been announced for this district.
- Lexington School District Two: Similar to others, a two-hour delay has been set. However, half-day 3K classes will be canceled, but afternoon dismissals can proceed at the usual times, with all after-school activities continuing as planned.
- Lexington County School District Three: This district has opted for an eLearning Day, which means that all after-school events have been canceled.
- Fairfield County School District: Operating on a three-hour delay as strong winds of up to 50 mph are expected to roll in.
What to Expect Post-Storm
Looking beyond the storm, temperatures in Columbia are anticipated to soar to around 73 degrees on March 5. However, prepare for a cool-down in the following days, with highs settling in the 50s and 60s on Thursday and Friday. Thankfully, warmer weather is expected to make a comeback over the weekend, so hang in there!
Stay Prepared and Informed
As part of Severe Weather Awareness Week, residents are reminded of the critical difference between weather warnings and watches. Being proactive can save lives, so it’s vital to have multiple ways of receiving weather alerts, such as through a NOAA Weather Radio.
Additionally, a Tornado Drill is scheduled for March 7 at 9 a.m., serving as a reminder to stay vigilant and be well-prepared for any potential severe weather in the future.
Whether you’re staying dry at home or braving the storm, let’s remember to look out for one another during this challenging weather event. Stay safe, Columbia!
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Additional Resources
- WLTX: Severe Weather Forecast South Carolina
- ABC Columbia: School Changes Due to Severe Weather
- Herald Online: South Carolina Weather Update
- WIS: Severe Weather Safety Week in SC
- The State: Weather News
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
Author: STAFF HERE Chapin
CHAPIN STAFF WRITER The CHAPIN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREchapin.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chapin, Lexington County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Chapin Christmas Parade, Fourth of July Celebration, and the Chapin Fall Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chapin Chamber of Commerce and the Lexington School District One, plus leading businesses in retail and recreation that power the local economy such as Lake Murray Tourism and the Chapin Visitor Information. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
