Weather Alert in South Carolina: Heavy Rains and Thunderstorms Expected Saturday
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Much of South Carolina is under a Weather Impact Alert this weekend as forecasters warn of heavy rains and thunderstorms capable of producing flash flooding across the state.
Alert Covers Midlands, CSRA, and Lowcountry
The alert went into effect Friday evening and will last until 2 a.m. Sunday, covering most counties in the Midlands except Kershaw, Fairfield, and Lee. It also extends into the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA) and the Lowcountry.
Forecasters say the primary concern is flash flooding in low-lying areas and on roads during periods of heavy downpours. Travel could be disrupted at times, especially for those driving through flood-prone regions.
Storms Fueled by Coastal Front
The unsettled weather pattern is tied to a stationary front parked off the Lowcountry coast and stretching into southern Georgia. Moisture rising northward from the system is fueling showers and thunderstorms across the Palmetto State.
Saturday morning will bring mostly cloudy skies, with light rain possible before a stronger round of storms develops in the afternoon. Rain chances will persist into Sunday, particularly along coastal communities.
Safety Precautions Urged
Officials are urging residents to remain cautious during the alert. Drivers are reminded to avoid flooded roadways and to remember the phrase: “Turn around, don’t drown.”
Travelers should allow extra time during periods of heavy rainfall and keep track of changing conditions by monitoring local alerts.
While conditions are expected to gradually improve by late Sunday, forecasters warn that isolated downpours may still cause issues through the weekend. Residents are encouraged to follow local emergency management updates as well as regional forecasts.
South Carolina residents experiencing flooding or storm impacts this weekend are invited to share their updates and safety tips at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
