Columbia, SC – Drivers across South Carolina will battle near-90° heat on Monday as August’s late-summer warmth peaks in the Midlands. The heat will make roadways like I-26 and I-20 hotter than the air temperature, raising risks for tire blowouts and overheated engines.
According to the National Weather Service, Columbia will reach a high near 90°F Monday under mostly sunny skies. Winds shift north overnight into Tuesday, bringing drier air and slightly cooler highs. Morning commutes will start in the upper 60s before quickly climbing. Residents are urged to hydrate, limit outdoor work in the afternoon, and check cooling systems in vehicles before travel.
Lexington, Irmo, and Cayce will also see highs near 90°F with calm to light northwest winds. Conditions improve Tuesday with highs around 85°F and increasing cloud cover by nightfall. By Wednesday, Columbia cools into the mid-80s with mostly sunny skies, offering relief after two days of late-summer heat.
The heat is not expected to break records, but it could strain air conditioners and increase power demand. SCE&G officials recommend limiting appliance use during peak afternoon hours. Outdoor workers and vulnerable groups should avoid prolonged exposure and use shaded rest areas.
Conditions remain dry across much of the state through Thursday, with no major rain chances on the horizon. Nights dip comfortably into the low-to-mid 60s midweek, making mornings more tolerable.
Warnings are not currently in effect, but residents should continue monitoring forecasts in case of late-week advisories.
Five Day Forecast for Columbia, SC
- Monday: Sunny, high near 90°, low around 67°.
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny, high near 85°, low around 65°.
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 84°, low around 62°.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 83°, low around 63°.
- Friday: Partly sunny, high near 83°, low around 63°.
