Strong storms return to the Midlands of South Carolina
After a violent night of severe weather on Saturday, the Midlands region of South Carolina is bracing for another round of storms today, Monday, June 9. More than 10,000 customers were without electricity Sunday morning, following intense thunderstorms that swept through Columbia, Lexington, and West Columbia, causing extensive tree and powerline damage.
Sunday’s severe storm activity
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued a severe thunderstorm warning Sunday morning around 10:40 a.m., covering Columbia, Lexington, and West Columbia, with the threat expected to continue until at least 11:15 a.m.. The primary hazards included wind gusts of 60 mph (96 km/h) and hail. These conditions mirrored Saturday night’s storms, when sustained gusts near 60 mph lasted up to 20 minutes, leading to fallen trees, snapped branches, and damaged utility poles throughout the Midlands.
Cleanup operations were still underway Sunday, but residents were urged to prepare for more impactful weather. The most dangerous window for Sunday’s storms spanned from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the greatest risk focused on areas south of the Interstate 20 corridor, extending from the CSRA region up to the South Carolina–Georgia state line and into the Midlands.
Meteorologists warned that gusts over 60 mph could again knock out power in Richland, Lexington, and northern Calhoun counties. Boaters on Lake Murray were advised to seek safe harbor, and those outdoors were encouraged to take cover in buildings.
Earlier in the day, Saluda, Edgefield, and McCormick counties were also placed under thunderstorm warnings due to similar wind threats. While no additional watches or warnings had been issued as of mid-morning Sunday, the forecast indicated conditions could change rapidly.
Rainfall totals were expected to remain low at around a 40% chance of precipitation, though localized downpours were possible with any thunderstorm development.
Monday’s outlook: Tornado risk and widespread storms
As the week begins, the weather pattern remains volatile, with strong-to-severe storms forecast again on Monday, June 9. According to National Weather Service briefings, the risk increases with the potential for tornadoes joining the list of threats.
Powerful winds are anticipated in multiple storm rounds, and the possibility of isolated tornadoes introduces greater risks to life and property. Storm impacts could include damaged trees, broken branches, destruction to mobile homes, roof damage, and threats to vehicles from falling debris or tornado strikes.
Electricity outages are expected to increase again, particularly in areas already affected over the weekend.
The highest risk window for Monday’s severe storms stretches from early afternoon through late night, with the storms expected to be more widespread than those on Sunday. Meteorologists predict several waves of strong activity, potentially dropping up to an inch (25 mm) of rain by the time the system weakens Monday night.
Extended forecast: persistent heat and storm chances
Looking ahead, the Columbia region will likely remain unsettled throughout the week. The current long-range forecast suggests daily chances of showers and thunderstorms, with the exception of Wednesday, which may offer brief relief. At the same time, temperatures will climb to around 90°F (32°C) most afternoons, maintaining a hot and humid environment ideal for thunderstorm development.
Stay weather-aware and check back for updates, as warnings and watches may be issued with little notice while the situation continues to evolve.
