Columbia Residents Brace for Strong Winds and Possible Snow

News Summary

Columbia is preparing for a challenging weather week as a wind advisory has been issued by the National Weather Service, with winds expected to reach up to 45 mph. Residents are advised to secure outdoor items and be cautious while driving, especially in high-profile vehicles. Additionally, snow may fall this weekend, marking the city’s first measurable snowfall since January 2022. With rain expected before the snow, Columbia residents are encouraged to stay updated on weather changes and prepare for possible hazardous conditions.

Columbia Residents Brace for Strong Winds and Possible Snow

Get ready, Columbia! The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a wind advisory that’s set to start bright and early, just after the sun rises on Monday morning. This advisory is in effect from 6 a.m. until 7 p.m. and includes several areas across Central South Carolina. From Northwestern Orangeburg to Sumter County, folks will need to keep an eye on those gusty winds.

What’s Happening with the Wind?

According to the latest reports, the winds will be coming in from the southwest at a steady pace of 10 to 20 mph. However, don’t let your guard down, because those winds could gust as high as 40 mph. For those in the Central Savannah River Area and southern Midlands, you might even see gusts exceeding 45 mph. That’s certainly enough to make you think twice about whether to put out the trash cans or fly a kite!

Even more concerning is the potential for the wind to wreak havoc. The NWS warns that these gusty winds will likely blow around unsecured objects and could lead to downed tree limbs, which means there’s a possibility for power outages. High-profile vehicles, be warned: travel may be tricky because of the intense winds. It’s a good idea to secure outdoor objects before heading out on Monday so they don’t end up in the neighbor’s yard.

Eyes on the Sky: Possible Snow This Weekend!

If you think the wind is the only weather event to prepare for this week, think again! There’s also a possibility of snow falling on Columbia this weekend. In fact, a chilled forecast points toward some precipitation on Friday night leading into Saturday morning, and yes, it could lead to the *first measurable snowfall since January 2022* for our lovely city.

Back then, we got between 1 and 3 inches of snow during a winter storm, so if you’re dreaming of a snowy weekend, keep those fingers crossed! The current forecast indicates that temperatures will be dipping below freezing as we move into Friday, with forecasted lows in the 30s. This means conditions could be just right for snow to form, particularly overnight on Saturday when temps could drop to a chilly 27 degrees.

Rain, Snow, and Everything in Between

Before we get to the snow, it looks like rain will grace us late Friday night, right before temperatures plummet. So, grab those umbrellas, folks! But don’t pack them away just yet—once the rain passes, there’s a good chance for some light snow to dust our streets.

For anyone participating in outdoor activities or boating, you should be aware that the wind advisory could also affect local lakes. Expect some rough conditions out there for small crafts due to those strong and gusty winds combined with high waves. Safety first, everyone!

Stay Informed

It’s important to monitor weather updates leading into the weekend to stay prepared for whatever Mother Nature throws our way. Grab those warm blankets and cozy up, Columbia—this week is set to be a whirlwind, and we might just find ourselves in a winter wonderland after all!

This forecast is evolving, so keep your ears open and your eyes on the sky, and hopefully, the only wind you’ll be dealing with is the one that powers your home and heats your cocoa!