A soggy start to the day greets central South Carolina as moderate to heavy rain pushes through the region during the morning commute. Windshield wipers are working overtime from Augusta to Columbia, where pockets of heavier rainfall have reduced visibility and created slick driving conditions before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, rainfall continues through the midmorning hours, but the system is moving quickly west to east, meaning a relatively short window of wet weather. Most areas along and west of I-20 — including Aiken, Lexington, and Newberry — should see rain taper off by 9–10 a.m., while eastern locations like Camden, Sumter, and Cheraw will dry out between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Forecasters expect total rainfall under one inch for most spots, though brief heavier bursts could cause ponding on low-lying roads and minor urban runoff. Commuters should use extra caution, as early-morning travel remains slick and visibility may briefly drop in heavier downpours.
Once the system exits, skies will gradually clear from west to east through the afternoon, leading to dry and mild conditions for evening travel. Winds shift northwest behind the front, ushering in cooler, crisper air across the Midlands and Pee Dee regions.
Looking ahead, Wednesday brings partly sunny skies with highs in the mid-50s, followed by a quiet stretch of early December weather through the end of the week — a welcome break after the soggy start.
Drivers are urged to slow down on wet roads this morning and avoid standing water when possible. Rain-soaked commutes will fade quickly, but the slick conditions could linger longer than the storm itself.
