South Carolina — Cold air bites early as breath fogs windshields and lawns crunch under frost across the Midlands. Pavement stays dry for now, but winter is lining up its next move.
Temperatures hover in the upper 20s around Columbia this morning under clear skies. Sunshine helps later, pushing highs into the mid-50s. The warmup is brief. Clear skies tonight allow another cold drop, setting the stage for changes ahead.
According to the National Weather Service, clouds increase Thursday as moisture returns. Highs climb into the low 60s, which melts frost and leaves roads damp by evening. That moisture matters as colder air presses in behind the system.
Rain chances rise Thursday night into Friday. By Friday afternoon, temperatures slide back toward freezing after a mild start. As colder air deepens Friday night, rain may mix with sleet, then transition toward freezing rain. Bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads could ice quickly after sunset, especially along I-26, I-20, and I-77.
Saturday brings the highest concern. A wintry mix is likely, with freezing rain possible at times. Highs struggle near the upper 30s, limiting melting. Even light ice could cause travel issues, power disruptions, and slick sidewalks. Plan extra time if traveling and avoid unnecessary driving after dark.
Saturday night remains icy as temperatures dip into the low 20s. Sunday stays cold, with freezing rain possible early before tapering. Any lingering moisture refreezes each night, increasing the risk of flash freezing.
Looking ahead, the 6–10 day outlook keeps South Carolina leaning below normal in temperature. Additional precipitation chances next week may interact with lingering cold air, keeping winter hazards in play.
Five-Day Weather Outlook for Columbia, SC
- Today: Mostly sunny, high near 56°F
- Thursday: Partly sunny, high near 62°F
- Friday: Rain developing, turning colder, high near 59°F
- Saturday: Wintry mix likely, high near 38°F
- Sunday: Freezing rain possible early, high near 32°F
