Columbia, SC – A cold air mass will keep temperatures well below normal across central South Carolina Friday, with overnight lows expected to drop into the 20s for most areas, according to the National Weather Service in Columbia.
Daytime highs will only reach the upper 40s to low 50s, with a noticeable chill lingering into the evening hours. As skies clear overnight, temperatures are forecast to plummet — with lows between 23°F and 28°F across the Midlands, including Columbia, Sumter, and Orangeburg.
Forecasters warn that the widespread freeze could pose risks to sensitive vegetation, exposed pipes, and outdoor pets. Residents are encouraged to take precautions by covering plants, dripping faucets, and bringing animals indoors.
The cold stretch will continue into the weekend before a gradual warm-up begins Sunday. However, another round of below-freezing temperatures is possible early next week.
