The stormy pattern that the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry has been experiencing will continue for the rest of the workweek.

Heavy rain and storms are likely across the Coastal Empire and Lowcountry Thursday and into Friday along with a few strong to severe storms. 

Thursday’s Storms

The biggest concern on Thursday will be widespread heavy rain. Rainfall rates will be in excess of 2″ per hour with some of the stronger cells that develop.

A few isolated storms may become severe with damaging wind gusts in excess of 60 mph as the main concern. Some hail is possible also.

The best timing for storms on Thursday afternoon will be between 1 and 9 p.m.

Friday’s Storms

Friday will be a Weather Aware Day due to the possibility of scattered severe storms.

Damaging wind gusts in excess of 60 mph will again be the main threat. Hail and isolated spin-up tornadoes are possible.

The tornado risk will be low, just not zero.

Heavy rain and localized flooding will be an issue in areas with poor drainage. Rainfall rates will be in excess of two inches per hour. 

Friday’s storms will be moving though the region ahead of a strong frontal boundary which will lead to strong and gusty conditions even without severe storms. 

Storms on Friday will begin to move in from the west around noon and will continue through the later afternoon. Most storms should be off of the coast with the cold front by 6 p.m.

How To Prepare

It is a good idea to think about what you would to in the even that a severe thunderstorm warning or tornado warning is issued for your area. Have a plan to get indoors and to the lowest level of a sturdy structure away from windows and doors.

You also need a reliable way to receive critical weather alerts. A NOAA Weather Radio is a great tool to have in your home or place of work. They are dependable, even when the power and cellular service may be disrupted.

Another great tool to have ready is the  Weather NOW app which can receive weather alerts directly to your mobile device anywhere you are. It is free and is available in the Apple App Store or Google Play.

Storm Team 3 will have you covered as conditions change, stay tuned for the latest forecast.