By admin 
This Saturday marks the first football game of the Gamecocks’ 2026-2027 season, and it could definitely be one to remember, but not for the reason you’d want.
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The sold-out game versus Kent State at William’s Brice Stadium will be packed, energetic and extremely hot. Kickoff starts at 12:45, right around the most scorching time of the day. It’ll be so hot, in fact, that temperatures might reach the highest they’ve ever been recorded in South Carolina for an opening game day.
Severe weather may also be in the forecast in the Columbia area in the afternoon and evening.
Here’s what you should know about the latest weather forecast, and how you should prepare:
Game day record heat
Bring some water and sunscreen, because it’ll be a sizzling Saturday for everyone in the stadium, especially since the thousands of attendees will be packed like sardines, side by side for several hours.
This week has already been sweltering, but the heat is expected to increase during the weekend, with heat index values pushing towards 110, according to the National Weather Service. This could lead to record-breaking heat, and a heat advisory may be issued.
It’s expected to be sunny with some partial cloud cover throughout Saturday, but temperatures are still likely to reach 98 degrees in Columbia, according to AccuWeather. The weather group warns that extended time outdoors can increase the risk of dehydration and heatstroke.
Additionally, the UV Index will be 8.0, which is very high and requires protection from the sun.
There is a marginal risk of thunderstorms developing in the Columbia area, possibly bringing damaging winds in the afternoon and evening, the NWS said.
How to prepare for the heat
For this kind of heat, it’s recommended to stay indoors and relax in an air-conditioned building. Staying out for hours in intense heat can lead to heat illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps and heat stroke.
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However, with a highly anticipated game day, we know it’s unlikely fans will be deterred from attending Saturday’s football game.
Here are tips on how to stay safe and protected from the Sun during the football game:
Before going to the game, make sure to drink lots of water, and avoid sugary, caffeinated or alcoholic drinks. An average person needs to drink about 3/4 of a gallon of water daily.
Also, make sure to spend a couple of hours in air conditioning beforehand. Do not try to stay cool by only using an electric fan, which does nothing to prevent heat-related illnesses.
When you go to the game, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes. To replace the sweat you lose during the game, consume salty snacks or a sports drink with water.
There’s not much shade at the stadium, but if you start feeling unwell, you might want to leave your seat and go near the concession stands for a couple of minutes.
Regularly apply sunscreen throughout the day. Sunburn can affect your body’s ability to cool down and can make you dehydrated.
If you or a friend is experiencing confusion, no sweating, hot and dry skin, or a rapid and strong pulse, they are likely experiencing a heat stroke. Call 9-1-1 immediately if this happens.
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Be safe, take precautions and enjoy the game!