COLUMBIA, S.C. — Expect sunny and dry weather through tonight, thanks to high pressure and dry air. Temperatures will keep rising into the weekend, reaching above-average levels. But on Friday, moisture will increase as a front approaches, bringing scattered showers and thunderstorms. The front will likely stick around through the weekend, bringing more rain chances by Sunday.
Today will be very warm, with temperatures rising into the lower 80s during the afternoon. Columbia has not reached the 80-degree range since November 9, 2023. The record high on Thursday was 88°, set in 1973.
There are several prescribed burns scheduled for today, which might cause some haziness in certain areas due to the smoke from these burns.
Moisture will return to the Midlands on Friday as a cold front approaches South Carolina. Scattered showers and storms are expected on Friday afternoon and during the evening. Some strong storms are possible, but the chance for severe weather is low as of now.
The Storm Prediction Center has most of South Carolina at a marginal risk for severe weather on Friday.
A marginal risk for severe weather means conditions that could potentially lead to isolated severe weather events. While the overall threat is low compared to other risk categories, there is still a possibility of localized instances of severe storms, such as isolated thunderstorms, hail, gusty winds, or brief tornadoes.
It is important for people in affected areas to stay informed through weather updates and to be prepared to take appropriate safety measures if severe weather occurs.
The front will stall south of the Midlands on Saturday. Saturday appears to be dry under partly cloudy skies. Highs will be in the upper 70s to near 80 degrees over the weekend. There will be a better chance of rain on Sunday.
Drier, colder weather is forecast for Monday and Tuesday. High temperatures Tuesday may only climb into the upper 50s to near 60 degrees.
