Charleston, S.C. – After enduring a stretch of intense heat and humidity, the Lowcountry is set to experience some much-needed relief as a moisture-rich cold front approaches. However, before the cooler air arrives, the region will see a few more days of high temperatures and thunderstorms.
Tonight’s Weather
Isolated thunderstorms are possible tonight as outflow boundaries from Wednesday’s storms continue to move through the area. Heavy rainfall and frequent lightning may occur, particularly after midnight. Fortunately, most areas will be rain-free before daybreak Thursday, with lows dipping into the mid to upper 70s.
Thursday’s Heat Advisory
A Heat Advisory will go into effect for Charleston, coastal Colleton, and tidal Berkeley Counties at 11 AM Thursday. With feels-like temperatures expected to exceed 108° (and potentially as high as 113°), the heat index will remain dangerously high across the region. It’s expected that most of the viewing area will experience triple-digit heat index values.
Afternoon Showers and Storms
As the cold front approaches, a few showers and thunderstorms are expected to develop late Thursday afternoon into the evening, primarily affecting areas to the north and west of the Charleston Tri-County. While not widespread, these storms could still bring brief heavy rainfall.
Rain and Storm Coverage to Increase Friday
On Friday, rain and storm coverage will increase as the cold front drifts into the Carolinas. The unsettled weather will continue through Friday night and Saturday, with potential for 1-3 inches of rain by Sunday, and isolated flooding or ponding on roads in areas with heavier rainfall.
Cool Down Behind the Cold Front
Once the cold front passes, temperatures will take a noticeable dip. Afternoon highs on Sunday could fall into the upper 70s and low 80s, about 10° cooler than the average for early August. This drop in temperature will provide a welcome break from the relentless heat of the past few days.
Extended Forecast
TONIGHT: Partly Cloudy, Isolated Rain/Storms. Low 77.
THURSDAY: Sun & Clouds, A Few PM Storms. High 95, Low 80.
FRIDAY: Partly Sunny, Scattered Rain/Storms. High 95, Low 77.
SATURDAY: Partly Sunny, Rain/Storms Likely. High 87, Low 73.
SUNDAY: Sun & Clouds, Scattered Rain/Storms. High 82, Low 73.
