Columbia Braces for Hurricane Milton’s Impact
Columbia, South Carolina is on high alert as Hurricane Milton barrels toward the coast of Florida. Although forecasters say that the storm is not expected to make its way into South Carolina, the Midlands area could still feel the *rippling effects* of this powerful hurricane as it approaches landfall. With the memories of Hurricane Helene still fresh, residents are preparing for whatever Milton may bring.
Storm Track and Wind Advisory
As of late Wednesday afternoon, Hurricane Milton is a Category 4 hurricane located about 150 miles away from Tampa, Florida. It’s moving north at a brisk pace of 16 mph, boasting maximum sustained winds of 130 mph. Those hurricane-force winds extend out about 35 miles from its eye, which makes this storm a formidable force.
While Hurricane Milton is forecasted to move well south of South Carolina, the National Weather Service is advising residents to take precautions, citing that parts of Columbia could experience gusty winds of up to 35 mph. A wild wind advisory has been issued and will go into effect at 4 a.m. Thursday, lasting until 8 p.m. that evening. This advisory includes Richland and Lexington counties, as well as most of the Midlands region.
Potential Hazards Due to Wind
Even though no rain is expected in the Columbia area, the winds could pose a significant threat due to the lingering damage left by Hurricane Helene. Meteorologists noted that winds of this strength can create hazardous driving conditions, especially for *high-profile vehicles*. They suggest using extra caution on the roads during this period.
Many trees were weakened during Helene’s lashing, so it’s important for residents to ensure that any outdoor objects are secured. Because of the damaged trees, the risk of downed power lines and outages is a real concern. Previously, more than a million power customers in South Carolina were left without electricity for several days or even weeks following Helene’s impact. Residents have been urged to be prepared just in case Milton’s winds cause similar trouble.
A Glimpse into the Weather Ahead
Despite the impending winds, Columbia can expect clear and sunny skies with *temperatures in the 70s* through Saturday. While we might see some dips into the 40s overnight this week, it looks like the sunshine will provide some delightful weather amidst the wind advisory.
The areas most likely to feel the brunt of Milton’s winds are those along and south of Interstate 20, which unfortunately includes the places that were left vulnerable by Helene. It’s worth remembering that Helene caused extensive damage that resulted in over 40 fatalities in South Carolina due to its flooding, damaged roads, and destroyed homes.
Staying Informed
As the weather situation unfolds, it’s essential for all residents in the Midlands to stay tuned to local updates and take necessary safety measures. The State is committed to providing quick and accurate information to keep everyone informed as Hurricane Milton approaches. Changes in the storm’s path or intensity could affect our area, so it’s best to check back regularly for the latest news.
In the next few hours and days, winds could start roaring through the Midlands as early as Thursday morning and continue into the afternoon and evening. So, everyone in the area should prepare for potentially gusty conditions, even while the storm tracks away from South Carolina.
As Hurricane Milton edges closer to Florida, Columbia stands ready. With *community spirit* and preparedness, let’s hope for the best while remaining cautious. Stay safe, everyone!
