Columbia, South Carolina – A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect across central South Carolina through 9 a.m. Monday, bringing a frigid start to the morning commute and early outdoor activities.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, temperatures across the region dropped into the 20s and lower 30s overnight, creating a cold winter morning from the Midlands into the Central Savannah River Area. The advisory covers areas along major travel routes including Interstate 26, Interstate 20, and Interstate 77.
Forecasters note that despite the cold start, temperatures will slowly moderate through midweek. Afternoon highs Monday are expected to recover into the 40s, with continued gradual warming Tuesday and Wednesday. Overnight lows, however, will remain cold enough early in the week to warrant caution during the morning hours.
The National Weather Service also indicated that a cold front later Wednesday could bring a chance of rain, though no hazardous precipitation was noted in the advisory. Conditions are expected to remain dry through most of the early week aside from that system.
Drivers traveling early Monday along I-26 through Columbia, I-20 near Lexington and Aiken, and I-77 north toward Winnsboro may notice colder pavement temperatures during the morning hours. While no wintry precipitation is expected, the cold may impact vehicles and exposed infrastructure.
Students, early-shift workers, and those waiting outdoors for transportation may feel the cold most acutely before temperatures rebound later in the morning. Residents are encouraged to dress in layers and allow extra time for vehicles to warm up before travel.
The advisory is expected to expire at 9 a.m., with improving conditions as daytime heating continues.
