COLUMBIA, S.C. — A colder, drier air mass is settling over the region, bringing chilly temperatures and gusty winds that will persist through the weekend. While the weather will remain dry, temperatures will gradually rebound as we move closer to the start of the week.
We had a lot of sunshine Thursday, but it was still cool. High temperatures were in the upper 50s and lower 60s.
Even with abundant sunshine today, temperatures will only climb into the lower to mid-50s. Paired with the persistent breeze, it will feel brisk, making a jacket essential. Winds will subside after sunset, but areas near lakes may see renewed gusts overnight, depending on the local conditions. Overnight lows will once again drop into the mid-30s.
Saturday will bring calmer winds and slightly warmer temperatures, with highs in the low 60s. A ridge of high pressure building in from the west will ensure plenty of sunshine and lighter breezes. Clear skies and calm winds on Saturday night will set the stage for radiational cooling, which could lead to patchy frost early Sunday morning as lows hover in the mid-30s.
By Sunday, temperatures will continue their upward trend, reaching the mid-60s by afternoon. The air will remain exceptionally dry, reinforcing the pleasant, sunny conditions. Overnight lows will moderate slightly, ranging from the upper 30s to low 40s.
As we head into the new week, temperatures will climb above average, with highs in the 70s by Monday and Tuesday. A cold front is expected to move through the region on Tuesday, possibly bringing a sprinkle or brief shower. While rain chances remain minimal through midweek, a more unsettled pattern could develop later, with increased moisture potentially bringing rain toward the end of the week.