Columbia, SC – Residents are experiencing an unseasonably cool August as high temperatures have stayed in the 70s for three consecutive days, a streak not seen in Columbia during August since 2013. The cooler weather, paired with a persistent wedge pattern and southwest flow aloft, is fueling an extended daily rain threat across the region.
Cool Temperatures Uncommon for August
Forecasters say today will continue the trend of unusually cool conditions, with highs ranging from the mid-70s to low 80s. The wedge pattern is expected to linger for at least a couple more days, keeping temperatures well below the seasonal average.
Scattered Storms and Flooding Concerns
A few morning showers are expected to give way to scattered thunderstorms this afternoon. Heavy downpours could lead to localized flooding, particularly northwest of Columbia, where the ground is already saturated.
“The combination of saturated soils and additional rainfall could trigger flooding in a short period,” forecasters warn.
Rain Threat to Linger into Next Week
While rain coverage and intensity may ease slightly by Thursday and into the weekend, the hit-or-miss storm pattern is expected to continue for much of next week. Late this week, the axis of heavier rainfall will shift closer to the coast, reducing inland impacts but keeping coastal areas under a wetter pattern.
Tropical Development Being Monitored
The Hurricane Hunters are set to investigate a developing low-pressure area off the Southeast U.S. coast today. Forecasters say the system could become at least a Tropical Depression in the coming days.
Its future path is uncertain—it may linger near the Carolina coast or drift northeast into the Atlantic over the weekend. While the Midlands likely won’t see significant impacts, periods of heavy rain could affect Carolina beaches.
Do you think the cooler August weather is a welcome break or a sign of changing patterns? Share your thoughts in the comments.
