South Carolina – Damp roads, low clouds, and a mild breeze early are setting the stage for a fast January turnaround across the Carolinas. Light showers pass through, then skies begin to clear. Behind them, colder air slides in quickly, changing the feel from cool to sharply winterlike.
According to the National Weather Service, scattered showers affect the Charlotte–Greenville corridor today, mainly during the first half of the day. Temperatures reach the low to mid-50s before falling steadily tonight as winds turn northwest. Drier air follows, setting up clear and colder conditions by Thursday morning.
Wet pavement may linger for hours after rain ends, especially on shaded roads and bridges along I-85 and I-77. As temperatures dip into the 20s overnight, patchy frost and isolated slick spots become possible. Drivers heading out early should slow down and watch for reduced traction in low-lying areas.
Thursday turns bright but brisk. Sunshine returns, yet highs struggle to reach the upper 30s across the Upstate and Charlotte metro. Winds gust at times, adding a biting edge. By Thursday night, clear skies allow temperatures to drop near 20 in colder suburbs and rural areas, increasing freeze concerns for pets, pipes, and plants.
Friday brings calmer winter weather. Sunshine dominates, with highs recovering into the mid-40s. Even so, cold mornings persist into the weekend. Saturday looks milder, while Sunday trends cooler again under mostly dry conditions.
Looking ahead, longer-range outlooks suggest colder air remains in place across the Southeast into early next week, with precipitation chances increasing farther west and north.
Heading out early or commuting tonight? Plan for falling temperatures and leftover damp spots. How cold did it feel where you are this morning?
Five Day Weather Outlook for the Charlotte–Greenville Area
• Today: Mostly cloudy with scattered showers. High near 54.
• Thursday: Sunny and colder. High near 38.
• Friday: Sunny and dry. High near 45.
• Saturday: Mostly sunny and milder. High near 51.
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, cooler. High near 41.
