Severe weather in the Columbia area continued to be severe on Thursday, and a tornado warning was issued for much of the Midlands, according to the National Weather Service.

The National Weather Service said the tornado warning was in effect until 1 p.m.

Both Richland and Lexington counties were included in the tornado warning. Other counties listed in the tornado warning included Calhoun, Clarendon, Orangeburg, Saluda and Sumter – among other areas in the central region of South Carolina.

Meteorologists with the National Weather Service said in a morning briefing that several showers and thunderstorms were possible in the Midlands Thursday morning and afternoon.

The severe storms could include damaging winds, hail and even an isolated tornado, the statement said. Flooding is also possible in urban areas and near small rivers, the National Weather Service said.

According to the briefing, winds with strong gusts of 60 to 70 miles per hour are possible.

Strong winds and tornadoes could cause significant damage to trees and limbs, as well as to mobile homes, roofs and outbuildings. Vehicles would also be at risk in the event of a tornado.

Damage to trees and branches poses the risk of power lines falling and causing outages.

This is a developing story. Check back later for updates.