Weather
SC Weather Alert: Columbia Cold Snap Friday-Sunday, Nov 13-15
South Carolina — Warm November sunshine will soon give way to brisk winds and temperatures approaching freezing across Columbia and the Midlands.
By Paige Sullivan · 2026-11-11T09:17:49.512Z
South Carolina — Warm November sunshine will soon give way to brisk winds and temperatures approaching freezing across Columbia and the Midlands.
After afternoon highs near 76 degrees Wednesday, temperatures could fall toward 33 degrees Saturday night.
That represents a striking 43 degree difference, bringing a noticeable seasonal reversal to Richland, Lexington and surrounding counties.
According to the National Weather Service, Columbia faces gusty winds Thursday before significantly colder air settles across central South Carolina heading into the weekend.
The shift comes as the Weather Prediction Center tracks an unusually strong push of polar air across the eastern United States.
Thursday Brings Gusty Winds Before Temperatures Fall Thursday, November 12, remains relatively warm, with sunny skies and temperatures reaching approximately 73 degrees.
However, west winds increase to 7 to 15 mph, with gusts potentially reaching 25 mph.
Those winds could scatter fallen leaves across neighborhoods and make exposed outdoor areas feel breezier.
Drivers along Interstate 20, Interstate 26 and Interstate 77 should remain aware of occasional crosswinds, particularly in open areas.
Thursday night temperatures fall toward 44 degrees as winds shift northwest.
That marks the beginning of a sharper temperature decline.
Residents should consider securing lightweight outdoor decorations and finishing sensitive yardwork before the colder air arrives.
Friday Brings a 12 Degree Afternoon Cooldown Friday, November 13, delivers a noticeable change.
High temperatures reach only 61 degrees, approximately 12 degrees below Thursday's expected high.
Sunny skies continue, but the cooler air will make conditions feel more like late fall.
By Friday night, temperatures fall toward 38 degrees.
That introduces the possibility of colder pockets developing outside Columbia's urban center.
Gardeners should begin considering precautions for sensitive vegetation before the weekend.
Saturday Nears Freezing Across the Midlands Saturday, November 14, brings the weekend's most significant temperature concern.
Despite sunny skies, afternoon highs reach only 57 degrees.
Saturday night temperatures fall toward 33 degrees, just one degree above freezing.
That could create favorable conditions for localized frost, especially in sheltered or colder outlying areas.
Residents with sensitive outdoor plants should consider covering vegetation or moving potted plants indoors.
The National Weather Service's broader outlook indicates much colder air spreading across the South, with freezing temperatures possible in several areas.
However, Columbia's supplied local forecast does not establish an official Freeze Warning.
Sunday Brings Sunshine but Chilly Conditions Continue Sunday, November 15, offers mostly sunny skies and highs near 59 degrees.
Temperatures fall toward 35 degrees Sunday night.
The cooler pattern continues into Monday, although daytime temperatures remain relatively comfortable.
No significant rainfall, accumulating snow or specific tornado threat appears in Columbia's supplied local outlook.
Five Day Columbia Weather Outlook Thursday, Nov. 12: Sunny, high 73°F. West wind gusts up to 25 mph. Low 44°F. Friday, Nov. 13: Sunny and cooler, high 61°F. Low 38°F. Saturday, Nov. 14: Sunny, high 57°F. Low 33°F, with localized frost possible. Sunday, Nov. 15: Sunny, high 59°F. Low 35°F. Monday, Nov. 16: Mostly sunny, high 58°F. Low 38°F. Tuesday, November 17, brings mostly sunny skies and highs near 59 degrees.
Looking toward Thanksgiving, additional cold spells remain possible as November progresses. However, no specific Columbia snow event is established by the available guidance.
Are you ready for Columbia's return to near freezing temperatures, or are you still enjoying the warm November afternoons? Tell us how cold it gets in your neighborhood.