COLUMBIA, S.C. — As we head into the weekend, expect seasonable temperatures and dry conditions across the area. A warming trend will begin early next week, bringing a shift in weather pattern.
Today, high pressure will settle into the Ohio Valley, maintaining a northerly flow and supporting sunny skies. Morning low stratus clouds will quickly dissipate, leading to a bright and cool day with temperatures climbing into the mid-to-upper 60s. This is close to normal for this time of the year.
Overnight, as high pressure nears, radiational cooling will allow temperatures to drop into the low 40s. Some of the traditional cool spots may drop into the upper 30s.
The weekend forecast offers dry, pleasant weather. High pressure will dominate both at the surface and aloft, creating mostly sunny skies and seasonable temperatures. On Saturday, highs will reach the mid-to-upper 60s, with overnight lows falling into the upper 30s to lower 40s under clear skies.
Sunday will bring similar conditions, though temperatures may warm slightly, with highs nearing 70 degrees. Overnight lows will be a bit milder, staying in the lower 40s.
The start of the week marks a transition as an upper-level ridge moves east and surface high pressure shifts offshore. This pattern will promote a gradual warming trend, with highs trending above normal by Tuesday and Wednesday.
Tropical moisture is expected to push northward, increasing the chance for rain late in the day Tuesday. More rain is possible on Wednesday.
Cooler, drier air will move into the region Thursday. High temperatures will be in the middle to upper 50s under mainly sunny conditions.