Residents of central South Carolina were hit with multiple tornado warnings Thursday morning as a major storm front moved through the Midlands region. The National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for most of South Carolina until 1 p.m. Thursday, March 12.
A strong cold front arrived from the west this morning, bringing with it a line of rain, thunder and gusty winds. At one point, tornado warnings were in effect for Lexington, Richland, Fairfield, Newberry, Saluda, and Orangeburg Counties, which includes the cities of Columbia, Irmo, Batesburg-Leesville, and the Lake Murray area. Check our complete Southeast weather alert coverage for broader context on these dangerous storms.
All tornado warnings and watches expired as of 12:45 PM EDT March 12, with the warnings expiring around 10:15 Thursday morning. The National Weather Service has not confirmed any tornado touchdowns in the area. However, the town of Irmo reported that Rawls Creek Park would be closed due to damage, and Blythewood Mayor Sloane Griffin said Doko Meadows Park will remain closed due to storm damage.
Skies continue to clear behind the line of strong storms this morning, and for the rest of Thursday, winds will stay breezy and temperatures will steadily fall. Behind this cold front, temperatures will drop quickly with a chilly morning expected Friday, though Friday afternoon will be cooler but pleasant with plenty of sunshine and highs in the mid and upper-60s.