Columbia, South Carolina – Temperatures could drop to 29°F across central South Carolina and parts of east-central Georgia by early Tuesday morning, bringing a brief freeze threat to crops, gardens, and exposed plumbing across the Midlands and CSRA.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, a Freeze Watch is in effect from late Monday night through Tuesday morning for counties including Richland, Lexington, Aiken, Barnwell, Kershaw, Newberry, Saluda, and Fairfield in South Carolina, along with Lincoln, McDuffie, Columbia, Richmond, and Burke counties in Georgia. Clear skies and light winds will allow temperatures to fall quickly overnight.
Cities including Columbia, Lexington, Aiken, Camden, Newberry, and Augusta could see temperatures slip below freezing before sunrise Tuesday. Communities along the I-20 corridor from Augusta through Columbia to Camden may experience widespread frost as readings fall into the upper 20s to near 29°F.
Agricultural areas and residential gardens face the greatest concern. Early spring plants and fruit blossoms can be damaged after just a few hours below freezing. Residents are urged to cover sensitive plants, bring potted vegetation indoors, and wrap or drip outdoor pipes to prevent freezing.
The coldest conditions are expected between roughly 3 a.m. and 8 a.m. Tuesday, with temperatures rising above freezing shortly after sunrise. Additional freeze warnings may be issued if colder readings become more certain.
