COLUMBIA, S.C. — A strong cold front will bring a dramatic drop in temperatures. Highs will only reach the 50s by Friday and Saturday, with overnight lows plunging into the upper 20s to lower 30s.
A strong cold front will sweep across South Carolina today. Gusty winds of over 25 mph are expected to continue this afternoon. A lake wind advisory is in effect for the Midlands until 4 p.m.
As the front moves through, temperatures will begin to drop, with highs in the low to mid-70s and lows tonight ranging from the upper 30s in the west to mid-40s in the east.
Friday and Saturday:
The cold front will leave behind much cooler air, marking a significant temperature drop. A deep upper-level trough will dominate the region, bringing highs only in the mid to upper 50s on Friday and lower to mid-50s on Saturday.
Overnight lows will plummet to the upper 20s and lower 30s, with frost and freezing conditions expected across much of the area. A freeze watch has been issued for parts of the Midlands for Saturday morning, from 3 a.m. until 9 a.m.
This watch includes Aiken, Calhoun, Clarendon, Orangeburg, and Saluda counties. This marks a likely end to the growing season in those locations.
Sunday and Early Next Week:
Sunday will remain cold, with highs similar to Saturday. However, a reinforcing wave of cold air will bring even chillier conditions on Monday and Tuesday. These days are expected to feature the season's coldest temperatures, with lows several degrees below freezing and highs significantly below normal.
By midweek, temperatures may begin to moderate slightly, though the overall trend will remain colder than average.
Prepare for the dramatic shift in weather this weekend, including potential frost and freezing conditions. Take precautions to protect sensitive plants and property.