South Carolina — Ripples turn choppy on area lakes this morning as calm conditions give way to a building wind threat. The air feels cold but still, a brief pause before stronger gusts arrive later today and tonight across central South Carolina.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, a Lake Wind Advisory takes effect this evening through early Thursday morning. West winds increase to 10 to 20 mph, with gusts up to 30 mph, creating rough water conditions on lakes across the Midlands and parts of east-central Georgia.
Boaters on Lake Murray, Lake Wateree, and smaller area lakes should use extreme caution. Strong winds and rough waves could overturn small craft, especially after sunset. Officials urge boaters to delay outings and secure vessels before conditions deteriorate.
On land, today stays sunny with highs near 53 degrees. Winds remain light early, then strengthen this evening as colder air drains in behind a passing system. Overnight lows fall into the mid-30s, with gusty winds continuing into early New Year’s Day.
New Year’s Day turns bright and noticeably warmer. Sunshine pushes highs close to 60 degrees, though a lingering breeze keeps it feeling brisk at times. Thursday night stays calm and cool, setting up a quiet transition into 2026.
Friday brings increasing clouds and a noticeable warm-up. Highs climb into the low 60s, signaling a shift away from winter chill. Rain chances increase Friday night and peak Saturday, when periods of rain could impact travel and outdoor plans.
Sunday dries out quickly, with sunshine returning and highs near the upper 50s. While snow and ice remain far north, shifting winds and rain mark a dynamic start to the new year in South Carolina.
Planning lake activities or New Year’s travel? Let us know how windy conditions feel where you are.
Five-Day Outlook: Columbia, South Carolina
- Today: Sunny. High near 53°F.
- New Year’s Day: Sunny and warmer. High near 60°F.
- Friday: Mostly cloudy. High near 62°F.
- Saturday: Rain likely. High near 56°F.
- Sunday: Sunny. High near 57°F.
