Weather
Columbia, SC Weather Update: Chilly Nights Arrive Oct 17-19
Columbia, SC – A noticeable shift toward cooler fall weather is expected across the Columbia area this weekend, with temperatures falling into the mid 40s by early Sunday and remaining relatively cool
By Natalie Brooks · 2026-10-16T07:53:26.507Z
Columbia, SC – A noticeable shift toward cooler fall weather is expected across the Columbia area this weekend, with temperatures falling into the mid 40s by early Sunday and remaining relatively cool as the new workweek begins. After Friday's forecast high of 88 degrees, residents will experience a substantially different temperature pattern, including daytime highs in the 60s and chilly early morning conditions. The cooler stretch could affect weekend outdoor plans, early commutes and anyone spending extended periods outside before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, temperatures are expected to reach 66 degrees Saturday before dropping to approximately 45 degrees Saturday night. Sunday is forecast to remain sunny but cooler, with a high near 62 degrees and a nighttime low around 46. Monday should bring another mostly sunny afternoon, with temperatures recovering slightly to approximately 67 degrees.
Cooler Weather Takes Hold This Weekend The temperature transition will become especially noticeable between Friday afternoon and early Sunday morning. Friday's high near 88 degrees contrasts sharply with Saturday night's projected low of 45, representing a 43 degree difference across the period. This is not an instantaneous temperature plunge, but it marks a significant shift in the range of conditions residents will experience over the weekend. Those planning outdoor activities should prepare for warm weather Friday followed by much cooler conditions Saturday and Sunday.
Saturday will also bring the weekend's main precipitation opportunity. The National Weather Service forecasts a 30% chance of showers, primarily before 9 a.m., followed by mostly sunny conditions. North winds of 10 to 15 mph could gust as high as 26 mph during the day. Those breezy conditions may make outdoor activities feel cooler, particularly in exposed locations around Columbia and surrounding communities.
Sunday and Monday Bring Chilly Mornings Sunday is expected to deliver one of the coolest afternoons in the available forecast, with sunshine and a high near 62 degrees. Temperatures should fall to around 46 degrees Sunday night before Monday brings a modest recovery. Although the forecast does not indicate freezing conditions in Columbia, the cooler mornings may be noticeable for people heading to work, walking pets or participating in early outdoor events.
Drivers traveling along Interstate 20, Interstate 26 and Interstate 77 should encounter generally dry weather Sunday and Monday based on the forecast. Saturday morning's shower chance could briefly produce wet pavement, while gusty winds may be noticeable on exposed roadways. No weather related highway closures or specific travel disruptions are established by the supplied forecast.
Gradual Warming Expected Next Week The cooler pattern is expected to ease beginning Tuesday, when afternoon temperatures climb to approximately 73 degrees under sunny skies. Wednesday could bring a high near 75, followed by another sunny day Thursday with temperatures around 74 degrees. Overnight lows Tuesday and Wednesday are forecast near 50 degrees, suggesting mornings will remain cool even as afternoons become more comfortable.
The outlook points toward a predominantly dry period after Saturday's limited rain opportunity, with sunshine forecast through much of the following week. Residents should consider keeping a light jacket available for early mornings while preparing for warmer afternoons as temperatures gradually rebound. The most important change remains the cooler weekend and early week pattern, rather than any significant storm threat.
Will the cooler temperatures change your outdoor plans this weekend, or are you looking forward to a break from the heat?
Five Day Weather Outlook Friday 10/16: Sunny skies are expected with a high near 88 degrees, followed by increasing clouds Friday night and a low around 58 degrees. Southwest winds may reach 6 to 11 mph during the morning.
Saturday 10/17: A 30% chance of showers is expected mainly before 9 a.m., followed by mostly sunny skies and a high near 66 degrees. North winds could gust to 26 mph, with nighttime temperatures falling to 45 degrees.
Sunday 10/18: Sunny but noticeably cooler conditions are expected, with an afternoon high near 62 degrees. Mostly clear skies Sunday night should allow temperatures to fall to approximately 46 degrees.
Monday 10/19: Sunshine returns with a high near 67 degrees, providing a modest afternoon warmup after the chilly weekend. Mostly clear skies are expected Monday night, with temperatures falling to around 48 degrees.
Tuesday 10/20: Sunny skies and warmer afternoon conditions are forecast, with temperatures climbing to approximately 73 degrees. Tuesday night should remain mostly clear, with a low around 50 degrees.
Extended Outlook Wednesday, October 21, is expected to be sunny with a high near 75 degrees and a nighttime low around 50. Thursday, October 22, should remain sunny with a high near 74 degrees.
The supplied local forecast does not establish a significant storm threat or additional temperature extremes beyond Thursday. No verified forecast details were provided for October 23 25.