South Carolina – Snow thickens quickly across rooftops and roadways as flakes pile up faster than plows can clear them. Headlights glow against steady snowfall. Travel conditions worsen by the hour across central South Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect through Sunday morning. Heavy snow continues across the Midlands, with 6 to 9 inches expected in and around Columbia. Northeast winds may gust up to 35 mph, causing blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
Roads are becoming snow-covered and slick, including stretches of I-20, I-26, and I-77. Drivers should expect difficult travel and possible road closures, especially on secondary streets. Snow that partially compacts during daylight will likely refreeze quickly after sunset, increasing the risk of spinouts and crashes.
An Extreme Cold Warning follows behind the storm. Wind chills are expected to drop to near zero or slightly below tonight. Prolonged exposure could lead to frostbite or hypothermia, while extended freezing may burst unprotected pipes. Pets, livestock, and vulnerable neighbors need shelter from the cold.
Snow tapers late tonight into early Sunday, with clearing skies by midday. Sunshine returns Sunday afternoon, but temperatures only recover into the mid-30s. Sunday night drops into the teens, locking in icy conditions.
Looking ahead, Monday turns sunnier and milder, with highs near 42 degrees. Tuesday climbs closer to 50, starting a brief thaw. Midweek brings increasing clouds and a chance of rain, but colder air may return later in the week, keeping winter hazards in play through the first full week of February.
Avoid unnecessary travel, keep emergency supplies ready, and monitor local road updates. Conditions may change fast. How much snow has piled up where you are right now?
Five-Day Outlook for Columbia, South Carolina
• Today: Heavy snow, windy, high near 30
• Sunday: Sunny, cold, high near 35
• Monday: Sunny, milder, high near 42
• Tuesday: Partly sunny, warmer, high near 50
• Wednesday: Rain likely later, high near 53
