COLUMBIA, SC – A calm, soft dawn greets the Midlands this morning — dew on rooftops, clear skies above, and the faint hum of a mild November breeze. For now, South Carolina’s warmest air in weeks is on the way, with a classic fall swing between sun, showers, and a late cool-down setting up by Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, Friday begins bright and still, with highs climbing into the upper 70s under full sunshine. Saturday’s pattern looks similar but warmer, with highs pushing near 80°F — about 10 degrees above normal for early November. South winds will stir slightly by afternoon, bringing moisture that could spark a few isolated thunderstorms Saturday night.
Rain chances tick up to 30% Sunday afternoon, especially north of I-20, as a weak cold front sweeps across the region. Most areas stay partly sunny and dry through midday, but a stray thunderstorm may track toward Sumter or Orangeburg later in the day. Any rain clears by evening, setting the stage for a noticeable drop in temperatures Monday.
By early next week, highs fall back into the low 50s with crisp, dry air dominating Veterans Day. Morning lows near freezing are possible Tuesday and Wednesday in rural stretches, marking the region’s first strong hint of late-fall chill.
Residents planning early holiday decorating or leaf cleanup will have ideal conditions through Saturday, but should secure outdoor items ahead of Sunday’s gusts and keep jackets handy for next week’s colder mornings.
Five-Day Outlook for Columbia, SC:
Fri: 76/57 – Sunny, warm; calm wind.
Sat: 80/60 – Mostly sunny; slight storm chance late.
Sun: 79/44 – Partly sunny; a few p.m. showers.
Mon: 52/31 – Cooler, breezy, bright skies.
Tue: 49/32 – Sunny and crisp; Veterans Day chill.
