Rain has already started falling in the Columbia area, and more precipitation and powerful winds are forecast to lash the Midlands Monday.
Widespread rainfall, which could be heavy at times, is expected to continue through Monday night, the National Weather Service said in a morning briefing.
Scattered to numerous showers and thunderstorms are likely to increase in the afternoon and will remain a threat into the evening, according to the briefing.
Up to 3 or 4 inches of rain could fall in Columbia , according to the National Weather Service, as the forecast shows there’s 100% chance of showers Monday. Localized amounts in other areas of the Midlands could be higher.
As a result, a flood watch was issued for nearly all of the Midlands — including Richland and Lexington counties — and is in effect through midnight Tuesday , the National Weather Service said. Low lying areas, and those with poor drainage, are at the greatest risk of flooding, according to the briefing.
Additionally, a lake wind advisory was issued for the same area of South Carolina, according to the National Weather Service. It goes in effect at 7 p.m. Monday and runs through 1 p.m. Tuesday , the National Weather Service said. Powerful wind gusts could reach 40 mph, according to the briefing.