South Carolina — Cold air presses southward tonight, and by sunrise Friday, the Lowcountry wakes up to a sharp reminder that winter still has teeth. Gusty winds sweep across coastal South Carolina, pushing wind chills down fast and making the air feel biting before the day even begins.
The National Weather Service warns that wind chills drop into the lower 20s around Charleston by Friday morning, with upper teens possible farther inland. Along the immediate coast, values hover closer to the low 20s, but persistent winds amplify the cold. A Cold Weather Advisory may be required for parts of the region if conditions intensify.
Temperatures themselves fall into the upper 20s and lower 30s, but wind speeds turn this into a bigger story. Gusts funneling in overnight strip away warmth quickly, especially during early-morning hours. Stepping outside before sunrise may feel closer to the teens than the actual air temperature.
No precipitation drives this alert. Instead, it’s the cold, dry push behind a strong front. The danger comes from exposure. Skin chills quickly, pipes become vulnerable, and pets feel the cold faster than people expect in coastal South Carolina.
Residents should act early. Dress in layers, limit prolonged outdoor exposure, and make sure pets have warm shelter. Check outdoor faucets, irrigation systems, and heating sources before heading to bed tonight. Even brief exposure can feel uncomfortable when wind chills hover near 20 degrees.
By Friday afternoon, sunshine returns, but temperatures recover slowly. Winds ease later in the day, yet the morning cold sets the tone heading into the weekend.
Winter may not linger long in the Lowcountry, but when it arrives, it hits fast. How cold did it feel where you are this morning? Share conditions from your neighborhood as the cold shot settles in.
