Tracking record heat this afternoon

TODAY: More sunshine with highs in the lower to mid-90s. The heat index climbs to near 100. Columbia will be near record territory today, with 94 the number to beat, set back in 2000. Winds are generally out of the south, in the 5-10 mph range.

TONIGHT: Clear skies overnight, but temperatures remain warm in the 70s.

EXTENDED: Tuesday will likely be the warmest day of the week, with temperatures again reaching the mid-90s. The record high in Columbia sits at 98 for Tuesday so we look to just barely miss it. On Wednesday, a cold front approaches, bringing cloud cover and a slim chance for evening showers. This is only enough to keep highs stunted in the high 80s on Wednesday. Thursday, after a slight chance for early showers, cooler and drier air moves in. Expect a high in the 70s. Another round of showers is possible Friday evening into Saturday morning, but it's another slim chance. Temperatures on Friday are in the 70s, climbing into the 80s by Saturday afternoon. Another chance for rain returns on Sunday as a cold front clears rain to the south. Timing of the front will play a big role in how much rain we see on Sunday before it pushes south, so stay tuned to the forecast for any plans this weekend.