Tracking summer-like temperatures and storm chances

THIS AFTERNOON: Sunny and hot, with temperatures in the lower to mid 80s. The UV Index is at high levels today, meaning sunburn is possible in under an hour.

TONIGHT: Temperatures remain in the 80s through dinnertime, falling into the 70s after sunset. Lows remain mild in the mid-60s amid a steady southerly breeze.

EXTENDED: Thursday will likely see record-breaking temperatures with highs approaching 90 degrees, besting Columbia's record of 86 set in 1910. Winds from the southwest will ramp up to 10 to 15 mph and gust up to 30 mph as a cold front moves in late tomorrow. A few storms may develop along and behind the front on Thursday night, but our biggest impact will be the steep drop in temperatures into Friday. Highs return to the 50s and 60s over the weekend, much cooler and more seasonal for the end of March. However, another warmup is on deck as we head into the new month, with an increasing chance of April showers next week.