South Carolina starts the day quietly, but the calm won’t last. Low fog hangs over parts of the Midlands early, softening streetlights and dampening pavement. By later today, wind becomes the headline.
A Lake Wind Advisory goes into effect this evening for central South Carolina, including the Columbia area. Northwest winds strengthen quickly after sunset, sustained at 15 to 20 mph with gusts up to 35 mph. The advisory remains in effect through early Saturday afternoon.
Conditions deteriorate fastest on open water. Area lakes such as Lake Murray, Lake Wateree, and Lake Monticello will see rough waves and choppy conditions. Small boats can overturn easily. Boaters should stay off the water or use extreme caution if travel is unavoidable.
On land, the wind adds a sharp edge to already cold air. Temperatures dip into the upper 20s to low 30s tonight. Wind chills fall into the lower 20s, especially in exposed areas. Patchy freezing fog early today may also leave slick spots on untreated roads and bridges before winds arrive.
Saturday turns bright but breezy. Sunshine dominates, yet northwest winds continue through midday. Highs reach near 50 degrees, but it feels cooler near the lakes and open fields. Winds ease by late afternoon, improving outdoor conditions.
Sunday brings calmer weather. Skies stay sunny, highs again near 50, and travel conditions improve. By early next week, a noticeable warming trend develops. Monday climbs into the low 60s, and by midweek, highs push into the upper 60s and 70s, signaling a February pattern shift.
For now, today’s focus is wind safety. Secure loose outdoor items, avoid boating tonight, and dress for cold gusts. Are lake conditions changing where you are this evening?
Five-Day Outlook (Columbia Area)
- Saturday: Sunny, breezy early. High 50°F.
- Sunday: Sunny. High 50°F.
- Monday: Sunny, warmer. High 62°F.
- Tuesday: Mostly cloudy. High 69°F.
- Wednesday: Chance of rain. High 72°F.
