Columbia, SC – Residents across central South Carolina should prepare for a dangerous combination of bitter cold and potential snowfall tonight, as an Arctic air mass settles over the region and a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, temperatures will fall rapidly Saturday evening, with overnight lows dropping into the low to mid-teens across much of the Midlands. Gusty winds will make it feel significantly colder, with wind chill values ranging from near 0 degrees to the upper single digits by late Saturday night into early Sunday morning.
Forecast maps show the coldest apparent temperatures across northern and central counties, including Lancaster, Newberry, Fairfield, Richland, and Kershaw counties, where wind chills may briefly touch 0 to 2 degrees. Even southern areas such as Orangeburg, Barnwell, and Aiken counties are expected to see wind chills in the 7 to 8 degree range.
In addition to the cold, forecasters say confidence is increasing in a significant snow event for much of the area this weekend. The National Weather Service reports a very high probability—often exceeding 90%—of at least 2 inches of snowfall across large portions of the Midlands and Pee Dee regions. A Winter Storm Watch remains active as conditions continue to develop.
Officials urge residents to take precautions, including protecting pets, covering exposed pipes, and limiting time outdoors overnight. Drivers should also monitor road conditions closely if snow develops, especially during early Sunday travel.
Further updates are expected as the system approaches and confidence continues to increase.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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