South Carolina greets the morning with damp air and low visibility, as headlights glow through pockets of fog across the Midlands. Moist pavement reflects streetlights, and the air feels cool but calm.
Temperatures in Columbia sit in the low 40s early, with patchy fog reducing visibility before mid-morning. Drivers along I-26 and I-20 should slow down through the early commute. Visibility improves quickly once the sun gains strength.
According to the National Weather Service, skies turn mostly sunny later today. Afternoon highs reach near 58 degrees, a comfortable jump that feels mild for early January. Winds stay light, keeping conditions steady and quiet.
Tonight remains calm with increasing clouds. Lows fall near 40 degrees, eliminating any freeze concerns for the city. It feels cool but not harsh, after all.
The weather story accelerates as the first full week of 2026 unfolds. Monday turns noticeably warmer, with highs climbing into the mid-60s under mostly sunny skies. Tuesday pushes even higher, nearing 70 degrees as southwest winds develop.
By midweek, springlike air dominates. Wednesday peaks in the mid-70s, a dramatic contrast from the recent winter chill. Light jackets may be ditched by afternoon, though mornings still feel crisp.
Rain chances remain low through Thursday, keeping travel smooth and outdoor plans intact. Meteorologists continue monitoring stronger winter signals later in January for northern states, but the Southeast stays firmly on the warm side of the pattern.
For now, enjoy the quiet stretch. Just allow extra time during foggy mornings and stay alert on shaded roads.
How warm did it feel in your neighborhood by lunchtime?
Five-Day Outlook for Columbia, SC
• Today: Patchy fog early, high near 58
• Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 64
• Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 69
• Wednesday: Partly sunny, high near 74
• Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 73
