News Summary
Columbia and Lexington Counties are preparing for severe weather as the National Weather Service has issued tornado and severe thunderstorm warnings. A tornado warning is valid until 8 a.m., affecting local towns such as Irmo and Chapin. Residents should be on high alert for strong winds potentially exceeding 74 mph, and take necessary precautions by seeking shelter. Additional weather alerts include power outages affecting 2,000 residents, along with wind advisories and a high chance of rain throughout the day. Safety measures are crucial as the storms could bring hazardous conditions.
Severe Weather Hits Columbia and Lexington Counties!
Columbia is bracing for a wild weather day as the National Weather Service has issued both a severe thunderstorm warning and a tornado warning for the Columbia and Lexington County areas. With dangerous storms brewing, residents need to stay alert and take necessary precautions.
Tornado Warning in Effect!
The tornado warning is valid until 8 a.m., so it’s crucial to stay informed. This warning also extends to the towns of Irmo and Chapin. Storms that could spawn tornadoes are moving toward the area, expected to reach South Congaree, Springdale, and Red Bank around 7:40 a.m., and further into West Columbia, Gaston, Pine Ridge, Oak Grove, and even near the Columbia Metropolitan Airport by 7:45 a.m.
What to Expect
Residents should expect strong wind gusts of up to 60 mph in Columbia, Lexington, Cayce, and West Columbia. There’s even a minor possibility of wind gusts exceeding 74 mph in the eastern Midlands. These powerful winds not only pose a risk for tornadoes but also present a danger to trees, branches, roofs, vehicles, and even mobile homes.
As such, the authorities are advising everyone in the warning area to seek shelter—preferably in a basement or an interior room on the lowest floor of a solid building. For those outdoors, in mobile homes, or vehicles, it’s vital to find stronger shelter as flying debris can be hazardous!
Additional Weather Alerts
Beyond the tornado warning, a severe weather warning has been issued, which will expire at 8:30 a.m.. These storms might not just bring confusion to your morning routine but also a whole host of consequences. The ongoing storm has already led to power outages, affecting nearly 2,000 residents in Richland and Lexington counties.
Additionally, there’s a wind advisory for all of the Midlands that will last until 7 p.m. Regular winds might hit 25 mph, with gusts potentially doubling that amount. So be careful when driving, especially if you’re in a higher-profile vehicle. It’s also important to note that localized storms may extend these effects into the early afternoon, with the potential for residual rain lingering through 11 a.m..
Prepare for Whatever Comes
While there hasn’t been any confirmed reports of tornadoes touching down yet, being prepared is always wiser than being sorry. Now is a great time to charge your devices, secure any outdoor items, and avoid outdoor burning. It’s crucial to remain cautious as the severe weather could also lead to downed power lines, compounding the situation with possible outages in the area.
Looking ahead, the forecast shows a 100% chance of rain today, but significant rainfall totals are not expected; we might see up to three-quarters of an inch in some localized areas. And don’t be surprised if they come with a side of pea-sized hail—those pesky little balls of ice can accompany storms too!
Stay Safe, Columbia!
While today’s weather may be daunting, it’s all about being aware and taking action! Gather your family, check the weather updates, and most importantly—stay safe. Make sure to follow any further advisories as they come in throughout the day. The storms may be fierce, but with preparation, you can weather this storm!
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Additional Resources
- The State
- Google Search: Severe Weather Columbia
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado
- ABC Columbia
- Google News: Midlands Tornado
- Fox Weather
- Google Scholar: Tornado Warning
- Country Herald
- Wikipedia: Tornado Warning
- WLTX
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