Columbia Braces for the Impact of Hurricane Milton
As Columbia residents hold their breath, Hurricane Milton is racing towards Florida with dangerous potential. Although it’s expected to pass well south of South Carolina, there are still lingering effects predicted for our region.
Understanding Milton’s Path
Currently classified as a Category 4 hurricane, Milton is hovering about 150 miles from Tampa, moving north at a brisk pace of 16 mph. With maximum sustained winds hitting a staggering 130 mph, the storm is indeed a beast.
But don’t let the storm’s track toward the Atlantic Ocean make you complacent. The remnants of Hurricane Helene, which recently wrecked parts of South Carolina, have left many areas vulnerable. Helene’s powerful winds and torrential rains have damaged trees, making them more prone to tipping over under Milton’s influence.
Wind Warnings Ahead
According to a briefing from the National Weather Service, gusty winds from Milton could reach up to 35 mph in the Midlands on Thursday. A wind advisory has been issued, set to kick in at 4 a.m. and lasting until 8 p.m. on the same day. The advisory affects Richland and Lexington counties, covering most of the Midlands.
Even though no rain is predicted for our area — lucky us! — residents should still prepare for the wind. The strong gusts might make driving challenging, especially for taller vehicles. The National Weather Service reminds us to “use extra caution” on the roads as winds of this nature can certainly create a bumpy ride.
Damaged Trees a Concern
The biggest worry is how the winds might impact weakened trees and branches left in the aftermath of Helene. There’s a real possibility that downed trees could lead to power outages, as they could take down power lines in the process. Just a reminder: more than 1 million customers in South Carolina were left without power for days following the last hurricane. Nobody wants a repeat of that!
Secure Your Belongings
With the winds expected to pick up by Thursday morning, residents are advised to start securing outdoor items now. Those loose patio chairs, garden ornaments, or anything that could become a projectile in strong winds should be stowed away or weighted down. Keeping our neighborhoods safe and intact is a shared responsibility!
Weather Outlook
On a slightly brighter note, the forecast does call for clear skies and temperatures in the 70s throughout the weekend. Overnight, temperatures may dip into the 40s, but at least we won’t have to deal with rain. Just keep your eyes peeled — although Milton is moving away from South Carolina, we still need to stay vigilant, as conditions can change.
Stay Informed and Prepared
As of now, Columbia seems to be more of a spectator than a participant in Hurricane Milton’s landfall, but safety is paramount. Check in frequently as updates will likely flow in as the storm approaches. It’s always better to be prepared than to be caught off-guard!
Stay safe out there, Columbia! Keep an eye on the sky, secure your possessions, and prepare for some windy weather. We’ll be keeping a close watch on Hurricane Milton as it continues its journey—and will provide any updates as the situation develops.
