South Carolina — Breath hangs in the air this morning as cold settles across the Midlands. Windshields glitter with frost, and the ground feels stiff underfoot. While today stays calm and bright, winter weather is already lining up its next move for Columbia and surrounding communities.
Temperatures start the morning near 23 degrees, one of the colder starts of the season. Sunshine helps later, pushing highs close to 49 degrees by afternoon. It feels tolerable in the sun, but shade stays chilly. Early commuters should watch for isolated slick spots on bridges.
Clouds increase tonight as temperatures fall into the low 30s. That sets the stage for a warmer Saturday. Highs reach the upper 50s, and most of the day stays dry. To be fair, it feels like a brief pause rather than a pattern change.
Rain chances rise Saturday night into Sunday. Light rain develops late, becoming more widespread by Sunday afternoon. Highs fall back into the mid-40s as colder air presses in. Meteorologists are tracking a rain-to-snow transition Sunday evening, especially north and west of Columbia.
Accumulations look minimal for now, but timing matters. Wet pavement may cool quickly after sunset. Even a thin coating could create slick conditions. Plan extra time if driving Sunday night, and slow down on untreated roads.
By Sunday night, skies begin clearing as colder air takes over. Lows dip into the mid-20s. Any leftover moisture may refreeze, raising the risk of black ice early Monday.
MLK Day brings calmer weather. Sunshine returns, with highs near 50 degrees. It feels crisp but manageable for outdoor events. Looking ahead, dry weather continues into Tuesday, with temperatures holding in the 40s.
Winter isn’t done yet, but timing your plans wisely helps. Are you traveling Sunday evening, or waiting until MLK Day morning?
Five-Day Outlook for Columbia, SC
- Today: Sunny, cold morning, high near 49
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, warmer, high near 59
- Sunday: Rain, chance rain/snow late, high near 44
- MLK Day Monday: Sunny, cooler, high near 50
- Tuesday: Sunny, seasonable, high near 46
