Heat advisory issued as dangerous temperatures and thunderstorms are forecast in Midlands

Extreme heat and powerful thunderstorms pose threats to the Columbia area Sunday, according to the National Weather Service.

The combination of hot temperatures in the mid-to-upper 90s and humidity from high dew points will likely result in heat index values of 105 to 110 degrees Sunday afternoon, National Weather Service meteorologists said in a morning briefing.

The weather service issued a heat advisory for Richland and Lexington counties, all of the Midlands as well as much of South Carolina. The advisory goes into effect at noon and is scheduled to run through 7 p.m., according to the weather service.

The “hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses,” and the inside of a car can “reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes,” the weather service said.

The highest temperatures are expected in the early afternoon.

They will be followed by showers and thunderstorms, which are expected to develop during the afternoon and night, according to the briefing. A few of the storms might become strong to severe.

Damage caused by strong winds and large hail are the primary threats with the stronger storms, in addition to the potential for localized flash flooding, according to the briefing.

Less than half an inch of rain is expected to accumulate, but localized amounts could be higher, especially in the case of thunderstorms.

The storms will work to limit the heat, and lower temperatures are expected through Wednesday, the forecast shows. Temperatures are expected to remain in the high 80s or low 90s until July 4, when the mercury is forecast to rise to the upper 90s.

TAKE CAUTION

▪ Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors

▪ Do not leave young children and pets in unattended vehicles — car interiors will reach lethal temperatures in a matter of minutes

▪ Take extra precautions when outside — that includes wearing lightweight and loose-fitting clothing, and limiting strenuous activities to the early morning or evening

▪ Take action when you see symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke

▪ To reduce risk during outdoor work, OSHA recommends scheduling frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned environments

▪ Anyone overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location. Heat stroke is an emergency. Call 911

Source: National Weather Service