Columbia, S.C. – South Carolina drivers should brace for gusty winds and rising heat Tuesday, September 16, as summer-like weather grips Columbia and surrounding areas. Winds along I-26 and major city roadways could make travel tricky during the morning commute, especially for high-profile vehicles.
According to the National Weather Service, northeast winds will increase to 5 to 10 mph Tuesday with gusts up to 20 mph. Columbia will see mostly sunny skies, but afternoon highs near 80° will feel more like mid-summer than early fall. Conditions remain breezy into the evening before calming overnight.
Tuesday’s weather continues a streak of unseasonably warm days for the Midlands. Temperatures rise through midweek, with highs near 89° by Thursday. While skies remain mostly sunny, shifting winds could increase fire danger in dry areas. Residents should secure outdoor items, limit unnecessary travel during peak gusts, and stay hydrated during hot afternoons.
Columbia’s warm stretch looks to continue through the weekend, with highs climbing into the 90s Friday and Saturday. Cooler, calmer nights provide some relief, with lows dipping into the low to mid-60s.
More advisories may be issued if winds intensify or fire risk grows. South Carolinians should monitor updates closely as summer heat holds on deep into September.
Five-Day Forecast for Columbia, SC
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 80. Winds NE 5–10 mph, gusts up to 20 mph.
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny, high near 84. Low around 63.
- Thursday: Sunny, breezy, high near 89. Low around 65.
- Friday: Sunny and hot, high near 92. Low around 68.
- Saturday: Sunny, high near 90. Low near 65.




