Columbia, South Carolina – Central South Carolina is experiencing a sharp temperature swing this week, with freezing overnight lows early on giving way to unusually warm daytime temperatures by New Year’s Day, according to forecasters.
Meteorologists say residents should prepare for cold mornings through midweek, followed by springlike afternoons and increasing rain chances as the weekend approaches.
Cold Start Across the Midlands
Early Tuesday morning, temperatures near Jim Hamilton–L.B. Owens Airport hovered around 36 degrees after a clear and calm night. Forecast models indicate that overnight lows will continue to fall, reaching around 29 degrees, creating a freeze risk across the Columbia metro area and surrounding Midlands.
These freezing conditions could impact sensitive plants, outdoor pets, and exposed plumbing, particularly in rural or low-lying areas where temperatures often dip slightly lower than official readings.
Tuesday and Wednesday Forecast
The National Weather Service in Columbia reports that Tuesday will remain sunny and dry, with afternoon highs near 48 degrees. Winds are expected to remain light, limiting wind chill concerns during the day.
Tuesday night brings another round of cold conditions, with lows returning to the upper 20s. By Wednesday, temperatures begin a noticeable climb, with highs reaching around 53 degrees under mostly sunny skies.
New Year’s Day Brings Warmer Air
The warming trend becomes more pronounced heading into Thursday. On New Year’s Day, daytime highs are forecast to reach near 59 degrees, well above typical late-December and early-January averages for central South Carolina.
Overnight lows also moderate into the mid-30s, easing freeze concerns after Wednesday night. The milder temperatures should make outdoor celebrations and travel plans more comfortable for many residents.
End-of-Week Outlook and Rain Chances
Forecast models suggest the warmest day of the period arrives Friday, with highs climbing to around 62 degrees. While temperatures remain elevated, moisture returns late in the week.
Forecasters indicate a 60 percent chance of rain Friday night, with rain becoming more likely into Saturday. Despite the precipitation, no winter weather is expected, as temperatures remain well above freezing during rainfall.
Travel and Safety Considerations
For commuters, students, and early-morning workers, cold mornings through Wednesday remain the primary concern. Drivers should be cautious of patchy frost, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and untreated surfaces, during the coldest hours before sunrise.
Energy usage may fluctuate as residents transition from overnight heating needs to mild afternoon conditions later in the week.
What Residents Should Do
Residents are encouraged to:
- Protect sensitive plants and outdoor plumbing during freezing nights
- Bring pets indoors or provide adequate shelter
- Monitor updated forecasts as rain chances increase toward the weekend
Conclusion
Columbia’s weather this week highlights a dramatic shift from freezing lows to near-spring warmth in just a few days. While cold mornings linger briefly, the arrival of milder air and New Year’s Day warmth will offer a welcome break before rain chances return later in the week.
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