Area Forecast Discussion Format Switching on Jan 12, 2026

Dangerous Heat to Continue through the Holiday Weekend; Severe Storms on Friday from the Plains to the Mid-Atlantic

Dangerous, record-breaking heat will continue across most of the central and eastern U.S through Friday then focusing across the eastern U.S. through the Independence Day holiday weekend. Peak heat indices of up to 115 degrees are possible. Isolated to scattered severe thunderstorms are possible from the northern/central Plains into the Midwest, Ohio Valley, and Mid-Atlantic Friday. Read More >

Change Notice: New Area Forecast Discussion Format

Beginning at noon on January 12, 2026, the National Weather Service offices - Charleston, SC, Wilmington, NC, Columbia, SC, and Greenville-Spartanburg, SC - will transition to a Key Message format for the Area Forecast Discussion (AFD).

This strategic change aligns the AFD with an impacts-first messaging philosophy, enabling our offices to streamline communication and reduce redundancy. This transition moves away from a strictly chronological layout to focus immediately on potential weather impacts and hazards. By prioritizing Key Messages, we aim to enhance clarity and eliminate duplication within the discussion.

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