Columbia, SC – A colder-than-normal pattern is expected to grip South Carolina through the second week of December, bringing frosty mornings, brisk afternoons, and a stretch of sunshine with no meaningful rainfall. The setup, outlined in the NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s 8–14 Day Outlook issued December 1, points to below-average temperatures and below-normal precipitation from December 9 through December 15.
Forecasters say much of the state will experience a true early-winter feel. Afternoon highs are expected to sit in the upper 40s to mid-50s, while overnight temperatures fall into the upper 20s and 30s. Cities including Columbia, Greenville, and Charleston can expect bright skies during the day but cold, frosty mornings that may linger longer than usual.
Cold Pattern Extends Into the Southeast
NOAA meteorologists explain that the same atmospheric setup delivering persistent chill to the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic will stretch into the Southeast during this period. The key difference is moisture. While northern states have battled snow or rain, South Carolina is likely to see dry air, clear skies, and low humidity.
The result is a stable, cold pattern that keeps sunshine in place but prevents temperatures from warming much during the day.
In its outlook, the NOAA Climate Prediction Center highlights South Carolina as part of a broad region expected to remain cooler than average. The absence of incoming storm systems means the state won’t see the kind of rainfall that typically accompanies early-winter cold fronts.
What Residents Can Expect Statewide
Forecasters say the combination of Arctic air and dry conditions will shape the entire week.
Key expectations include:
- Highs: Upper 40s to mid-50s most days
- Lows: Upper 20s to 30s across inland counties
- Skies: Mostly sunny with very low humidity
- Rain: Little to none expected through midweek
- Hazards: Patchy frost during early mornings
Rural and inland areas could see the coldest readings, while coastal locations stay slightly milder overnight but still well below seasonal norms.
Why the Weather is Staying Dry
The cold air mass spilling south from Canada is strong, but it lacks the moisture needed to generate widespread rain.
NOAA notes that the pattern favors clear skies rather than storm development, keeping the region dry despite the Arctic influence.
While cold snaps typically bring at least one moisture-rich front, this early-December setup features a more stable atmosphere. That stability reduces cloud cover and allows daytime sunshine to dominate.
National Weather Divide Highlights the Contrast
While South Carolina prepares for a chilly stretch, the country’s weather is sharply divided. The West Coast and southern Plains are projected to see above-average warmth and below-normal precipitation, a stark contrast to the cold gripping the eastern half of the nation.
This coast-to-coast split underscores how the jet stream is steering warm air westward and sinking cold air into the Carolinas and the broader Southeast.
Could Temperatures Warm Again Before the Holidays?
A slight moderation in temperatures may develop later in December as atmospheric patterns shift. However, meteorologists warn that another cold surge could arrive before the month ends, potentially resetting the chilly trend across the region.
For now, the early-December outlook remains clear: cold, bright, and dry weather will take hold as South Carolina moves toward mid-month.
Conclusion
South Carolina residents should prepare for several days of sunshine paired with noticeably colder temperatures. Frosty mornings, crisp afternoons, and the absence of rain will define the week of December 9–15, giving the state a winter feel without the stormy weather that often comes with it.
Share Your Experience
How are the cold mornings affecting your week? Share your observations or local weather updates in the comments below.
