South Carolina — Headlights glowed through lingering fog early this morning as moisture hugged streets and neighborhoods across central parts of the state. Damp air settled close to the ground, softening visibility and slowing the start of the day for many residents in and around Columbia.
Morning Fog Creates Early Travel Concerns
Patchy fog is the primary issue through mid-morning, particularly along I-26, I-20, and rural highways outside Columbia. In low-lying areas, visibility may briefly drop below one mile, creating sudden white-out pockets for drivers.
Motorists are advised to slow down, use low-beam headlights, and leave extra space between vehicles. Fog conditions are expected to improve steadily as temperatures rise and sunlight strengthens.
Sunshine Returns With Unseasonable Warmth
Once the fog lifts, sunshine takes control of the forecast. Temperatures climb steadily today, reaching the upper 60s, making the afternoon feel more like early spring than late December. The mild conditions should ease travel plans and outdoor errands after a slow start.
This stretch of warmth is notable for the time of year, offering a comfortable window for those heading out of town or enjoying time outdoors before the holiday rush resumes.
Saturday Brings a Rare Late-December Warm-Up
Saturday stands out as the warmest day of the period. Afternoon highs are expected to surge into the mid to upper 70s under mostly sunny skies. Early morning fog may redevelop in some areas but should clear quickly after sunrise.
Once conditions improve, road travel and outdoor activities should face minimal weather-related issues. Parks, shopping districts, and highways across central South Carolina are likely to see increased activity thanks to the unusually warm air.
Clouds Increase Saturday Night Into Sunday
Saturday night remains calm and mild, though cloud cover will gradually increase. Sunday stays warm by seasonal standards, with highs near 69 degrees. Skies turn mostly cloudy throughout the day, signaling a change in the broader weather pattern moving in from the west.
While Sunday does not bring immediate rain, the increasing cloud cover may limit sunshine and create a more muted feel compared to Saturday’s bright conditions.
Rain Chances Rise Monday Afternoon
By Monday afternoon, rain chances increase across central South Carolina. Showers are expected to be scattered and light to moderate, with no severe weather anticipated at this time. Even so, wet pavement during the evening commute could slow traffic and increase braking distances.
Drivers should plan extra time if traveling late Monday, especially during peak hours. While flooding concerns are low, slick roads and reduced visibility may cause brief slowdowns.
Cooler Air and Frost Risk Follow the Rain
Behind Monday’s rain, cooler air filters into the region Monday night. Overnight temperatures are forecast to dip into the lower 30s, bringing a risk of patchy frost early Tuesday morning.
Although freezing rain or snow is not expected, bridges, overpasses, and shaded roadways could feel slick around sunrise. Early-morning commuters should remain alert, particularly in rural areas where temperatures may fall faster.
Quiet, Seasonal Weather for New Year’s Week
As New Year’s week 2026 approaches, conditions trend quieter and more seasonal. Sunshine is expected to return Tuesday and Wednesday, paired with cooler but stable temperatures. This calmer pattern should provide improved travel conditions heading into the final days of the holiday period.
Five-Day Outlook for Columbia, SC
- Today: Morning fog, then sunny, high near 68°
- Saturday: Fog early, sunny and warm, high near 77°
- Sunday: Mostly cloudy, mild, high near 69°
- Monday: Chance of rain after midday, high near 74°
- Tuesday: Sunny and cooler, high near 50°
Traveling this weekend or early next week? Share what you’re seeing on the roads around Columbia in the comments below.
