Brace Yourself: Intense Storms and Hazardous Travel Ahead!

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – The chilly front that is causing today’s severe risk will be situated to our west this morning, bringing the possibility of intense wind gusts, heavy rain, and a few tornadoes throughout the morning and afternoon. Therefore, today is classified as a FIRST ALERT WEATHER DAY until the early evening. A TORNADO WATCH has been issued for the majority of our region until 1 PM this afternoon.

Aside from any ongoing situations to our west, a southerly breeze will intensify beginning this morning, reaching its peak just before the front. Sustained winds of 10-20 MPH are anticipated, with gusts potentially reaching 30 MPH, particularly near bodies of water. A “Lake Wind Advisory” is in effect for Berkeley, Orangeburg, and Clarendon Counties, and is set to conclude at 3 PM.

Depending on the level of early morning cloud cover and precipitation, the threat for midday and afternoon severe weather may fluctuate. Currently, our prediction keeps the likelihood of brief, isolated showers within a few hours of sunrise.

Our cold front is expected to approach the I-95 corridor between 9 – 11 AM. To the west of I-95, the environment is likely to be more supportive of powerful to severe thunderstorms, including, but not limited to, an increased chance of a brief tornado. In other areas, conditions will be conducive for at least isolated damaging wind gusts in the most vigorous storm segments from 11 AM – 4 PM. Exercise caution while driving, allowing yourself additional time in the event of ponding and stronger wind gusts.

Following the cold front, a few evening and early overnight showers should pave the way for a drier week ahead. A milder disturbance will move north of our area on Tuesday, but a stray shower cannot be dismissed during the day. Temperatures are expected to remain seasonably warm (upper 60s and low 70s) through New Year’s Eve, before another wave of cooler air settles in later in the week.

Be sure to download the Live 5 Weather app today for the most recent updates!

TODAY: Cloudy & Breezy. Scattered Showers & Storms. High 70, Low 52.

MONDAY: Decreasing Clouds. High 68, Low 50.

NEW YEAR’S EVE: Sun & Clouds. Minor Rain Chance. High 72, Low 47.

NEW YEAR’S DAY: Sunny & Cooler. High 63, Low 38.

WEDNESDAY: Clear Skies. High 63, Low 38.

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