Columbia, South Carolina – Strong winds whipping across area lakes early Monday will create dangerous boating conditions across the Midlands before a cold snap brings freezing temperatures to the region Tuesday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, a Lake Wind Advisory is in effect from 4 a.m. Monday until 2 a.m. Tuesday across central South Carolina and parts of east-central Georgia. Southwest winds of 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 45 mph could generate rough waves on lakes including Lake Murray, Lake Wateree, and Clarks Hill Lake.
Communities impacted include Columbia, Lexington, Aiken, Camden, Newberry, Saluda, Edgefield, and Augusta, along with nearby towns such as Evans, Thomson, and North Augusta. Officials warn that small boats could capsize in the strongest wind gusts, and boaters should use extreme caution.
A colder air mass will follow the windy conditions. A Freeze Warning is in effect from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. Tuesday, with temperatures expected to fall to around 29°F across the Midlands. The cold could damage gardens, crops, and sensitive plants.
Forecasters are also monitoring another cold night. A Freeze Watch has been issued for late Tuesday night through Wednesday morning, when temperatures could dip to around 28°F.
Residents should cover sensitive plants and protect outdoor plumbing ahead of the cold mornings, while boaters should avoid open water during peak winds. Additional cold weather alerts may be issued as temperatures continue to fluctuate through midweek.
