Columbia, South Carolina – Near-record high temperatures are expected Friday and Saturday across the Midlands before rain and cooler weather arrive this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, temperatures are forecast to climb into the upper 70s to lower 80s, placing highs within a few degrees of daily records. Forecast graphics show Columbia reaching around 78 degrees Friday and near 81 degrees Saturday.
Forecasters say the unusually warm conditions will persist through Saturday ahead of an approaching cold front. As the front moves into the region, rain chances increase mainly Saturday and Saturday night, with showers spreading across central South Carolina.
By Sunday, cooler and more seasonable temperatures are expected to return behind the front.
While no hazardous weather is currently anticipated, the abrupt shift from near-record warmth to cooler, wetter conditions may impact outdoor plans and weekend travel.
For students and workers, the late-week warmth may feel more like early spring than mid-winter, though umbrellas may be needed by Saturday night.
