South Carolina — The air feels warm and heavy across the Midlands this morning, with a touch of late-fall humidity clinging to the streets of Columbia. But a big weather shift is already building to the west—one that will send temperatures plunging just in time for Thanksgiving.
The National Weather Service in Columbia notes a chance of early morning rain as a weak front crosses the region. Clouds will gradually give way to sunshine this afternoon, pushing highs into the mid-70s, nearly 10 degrees above average. Southwest winds will shift northwest late in the day, opening the door to a cooler, drier air mass by tonight.
By Thanksgiving Day, expect crisp, sunny skies and a high near 58°F. Morning lows will dip into the upper 30s, a sharp change from this morning’s muggy start. Winds from the northwest at 10 mph will add a slight chill, making it perfect sweater weather for family gatherings, parades, and early travel.
Friday will feel more like early winter than late fall, with a morning low near 27°F—the coldest air so far this season. Frost will be likely across much of the Midlands, so travelers and early Black Friday shoppers should plan for icy windshields and brisk conditions.
Through the weekend, temperatures rebound slowly under sunny skies. Saturday will reach the upper 40s, and Sunday near 61°F with increasing clouds. Light rain may return by Monday as the next system approaches from the Gulf.
Looking longer-term, national models continue to signal a major Arctic front moving into the U.S. around December 1–5, bringing below-normal temperatures and a potential for heavy snow across the northern states—possibly influencing post-holiday travel nationwide.
Five-Day Outlook (Wed–Sun)
• Today: 75°F, clearing skies.
• Thursday: Sunny, 58°F.
• Friday: Cold, 51°F.
• Saturday: Mostly sunny, 49°F.
• Sunday: 61°F, clouds increasing.
