South Carolina wakes under a soft gray ceiling as damp, cool air settles across Columbia. Pavement carries a dull sheen, and light winds ripple through pines—an early cue that the atmosphere is shifting toward a wetter stretch as December begins.
A brief window of rain is possible between 3 and 4 p.m. today, enough to slick roads and slow travel near I-26 and I-20. Showers stay scattered at first, but clouds thicken quickly by late afternoon. Drivers should plan for reduced traction during the heaviest pockets of rain, especially on bridges and shaded turns where moisture lingers longer this time of year.
By tonight, a chance of steadier rain returns, and Columbia remains mostly cloudy with temperatures near the low 40s. Commuters heading home should keep wipers ready, as visibility may vary in passing bands. These small systems aren’t severe, but they mark an early-season pattern shift that often leads to several days of unsettled weather.
Monday brings another rain chance, especially after 7 a.m., with northeast winds picking up. Rain intensity increases Monday night, and models hint at a more organized system Tuesday, when rain becomes likely and persists through the day. Though South Carolina stays far south of the early-December snow line, colder air aloft could still produce quick bursts of heavier rain during transition periods—something to watch for as travel ramps up again.
By Wednesday, skies clear sharply, offering a bright and cool pause before another rain chance late week. This brief midweek sunshine may be the best opportunity for outdoor chores, early holiday decorating, or errands requiring dry pavement.
Five-Day Outlook
Today: Chance of rain 3–4 p.m.; high 59.
Monday: Slight rain early; high 53.
Tuesday: Rain likely; high 57.
Wednesday: Sunny; high 52.
Thursday: Partly sunny; high 57.
