We close out the work week with active weather dominating South Carolina. There is a line of thunderstorms that will move over the state generally from west to east and will bring periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms, some of which could turn severe Thursday evening. The strongest storms will be focused along the northern half of the state, affecting the northern Midlands and the Pee Dee. Some of the strongest storms could produce minor flooding as well as damaging wind gusts. These storms are expected to be near the coast by Sunrise Friday.
The pattern shifts a bit and Friday´s thunderstorm activity will be more scattered and less organized. A low-pressure system located over western South Carolina will continue to enhance shower and thunderstorm activity, mainly in the afternoon. By Saturday the system will be in the same general area, and a stationary front attached to it will continue to bring strong thunderstorms by Saturday morning which will continue to threaten in the afternoon hours. The beach area will also be mostly cloudy with the thunderstorms producing winds and making less than desirable beach weather. Keep in mind that there could be the risk of rip currents over the weekend too along the South Carolina beaches.
Overall rainfall will range between 1 to 3 inches, but there will be some persistent storms that could affect the same areas over and over again, therefore these areas could see isolated higher amounts. These totals might not seem too impressive, but keep in mind that the state is dealing with a drought and some areas are in a level 3 of 4, in a extreme drought. Dry grounds do not allow for rainfall to drain properly, therefore smaller rain amounts could make flooding easier.
Make sure to stay away from flooded roads. Remember turn around, don´t drown. If you have time, can safely do so if storms are not threatening your area, clear out your gutters or culverts from any fallen leaves or any obstructions. This could help alleviate areas prone to flooding.
If you are thinking that the rain might bring relief from the heat... think again. Highs will remain in the mid-90s across much of the state, and likely feeling muggier with all the rain around. At the most, there could be some areas in the mid to upper-80s briefly, when storms are present.