If you’re in Columbia right now, chances are you’ve already felt the effects of a serious storm that’s tearing through the area. It’s not just rain — we’re talking severe thunderstorms, gusty winds reaching up to 60 mph, and heavy rainfall that’s already making a mess of roads. The storm’s been ramping up since this afternoon, and it’s expected to continue making its way through the area well into the evening. So, what should you be ready for, and how can you stay safe? Let’s break it down.
What’s Going On Right Now?
As the skies darken over Columbia, the weather has gone from “unsettled” to downright dangerous in the blink of an eye. Here’s a quick rundown of what’s happening:
-
Heavy Rain: If you haven’t been caught in the downpour yet, you probably will soon. The rain is coming down fast and hard, and it’s already flooding some streets. Some of the city’s lower-lying areas are at risk for flash flooding, so be cautious if you’re near places that are prone to water buildup.
-
Power Outages: The winds are no joke. With gusts up to 60 mph, trees are being knocked down left and right, and power lines are going down with them. If your lights have already gone out, you’re not alone. Some areas of Columbia are already dealing with power outages, and there’s no word yet on when things will be back to normal.
-
Lightning Strikes: To add to the chaos, the lightning’s been incredibly frequent and intense. There’s a real risk of fires breaking out from those strikes, especially in areas where the weather’s been dry lately. It’s best to stay indoors as much as possible.
What’s at Risk?
This isn’t just a typical afternoon storm — this one’s packing some serious punch. Here’s why you should be extra cautious:
-
Flooding: The rain isn’t letting up anytime soon. Streets that don’t usually flood are becoming impassable as water rises quickly. If you’re in an area that tends to get flooded, you’re at a much higher risk for dangerous conditions. Even areas that normally handle rain well could be overwhelmed if this keeps up.
-
Downed Trees and Power Lines: The wind is making a mess of things, knocking over trees and power lines. If you’re out driving, don’t be surprised if you come across blocked roads or debris in your way. And remember — if you see a downed power line, stay far away from it. Downed power lines are one of the most dangerous things in a storm.
-
Lightning: That frequent lightning isn’t just a light show — it’s dangerous. You don’t want to be caught outside, and even staying near windows could be risky. Lightning strikes can cause fires, power surges, and, of course, injury. If you hear thunder, take cover immediately.
How to Stay Safe During the Storm
With all of these hazards in play, it’s essential to stay alert and take the right steps to keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Here’s what you should do:
-
Stay Indoors: This is the most important thing. If you can, stay inside your home, away from windows and doors. The combination of heavy rain, high winds, and lightning is more than enough to put anyone at risk if they’re caught outside.
-
Don’t Drive: Even though it might seem like it’s just rain, the flooding can catch you off guard. If you’re already on the road, pull over and wait until the storm lets up a bit. Don’t risk driving through water — it only takes a small amount of water to sweep your car away.
-
Secure Outdoor Items: If you’re at home, take a look around and make sure there’s nothing that could be blown away by the strong winds. Furniture, garbage cans, or anything else you don’t want flying around should be brought inside or tied down.
-
Charge Your Devices: With power outages happening in several parts of Columbia, it’s a good idea to make sure your phones, tablets, and other devices are fully charged. You don’t want to be stuck without a way to get updates if the power goes out completely.
-
Stay Informed: Make sure you’re keeping an eye on weather updates. With how quickly things are changing, you’ll want to know if there are any additional warnings or changes to the storm’s path.
What’s Coming Next?
This storm isn’t over yet, and there’s still more to come. The heavy rain is expected to keep falling, and wind gusts will remain strong through the evening. Flooding will likely be a big issue in the hours to come, especially as more rain continues to fall. Areas that aren’t used to dealing with flooding could see water build up quickly, so stay aware of your surroundings if you need to go out.
While the worst of the storm might be in Columbia right now, it’s still important to stay vigilant in case things take a turn for the worse. The city’s already dealing with flooding and downed power lines, so it’s important to continue to stay indoors until things calm down.
Power Outages and Road Disruptions
As the storm rages on, the power outages are becoming a bigger issue. Emergency crews are working hard to restore power to those who’ve lost it, but it could take hours, or even longer, in some areas. In the meantime, do your best to conserve power and avoid using unnecessary electronics. If you’re without power, be sure to keep a flashlight handy and have extra batteries just in case.
If you’re on the road, expect delays and detours due to fallen trees or debris. It’s better to wait until the storm has passed to go out — it’s just not worth the risk.
Stay Safe, Columbia!
This storm is a reminder of just how powerful nature can be. Columbia is facing a lot of challenges today, with flooding, strong winds, and frequent lightning making things difficult for everyone. But we’ll get through it — as long as we stay safe and stay informed.
