News Summary
Columbia, South Carolina is bracing for a wintry mix this week, with the National Weather Service predicting freezing rain, sleet, and snow starting Wednesday. While northern parts of South Carolina and North Carolina may see more severe weather, Columbia’s temperatures remain uncertain. The South Carolina Department of Transportation is taking precautions by treating roads. Residents are advised to stay aware of weather updates and avoid unnecessary travel as temperatures plummet and the risk of black ice increases.
Columbia, South Carolina is facing potential winter weather this week, as the National Weather Service (NWS) has forecast a wintry mix of precipitation, including freezing rain, sleet, and snow, beginning Wednesday. The arrival of a low-pressure system moving along the coast is expected to contribute to the precipitation in the Midlands area.
The likelihood of winter weather is heightened in northern South Carolina and North Carolina, where sub-freezing air is anticipated to flow into those regions. In Columbia, however, temperatures on Wednesday are less certain, potentially diminishing the chances of a wintry mix. If temperatures remain too warm, the area may only experience rain instead of mixed precipitation. Nonetheless, as temperatures may fall to 30 degrees Fahrenheit on Wednesday night, there is a 30% chance of precipitation continuing into the evening.
Weather models are predicting a total precipitation amount of less than half an inch on Wednesday, with localized estimates suggesting that a tenth of an inch of a wintry mix could occur, though some areas might see higher amounts. Any lingering winter precipitation could create hazardous conditions on the roads, leading to potential traffic delays and safety concerns for drivers.
In preparation for this winter weather, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has initiated proactive measures by spraying salt brine on primary roads and interstate routes. Efforts will extend to secondary roads, particularly in the Upstate region, once the precipitation begins.
Forecasts indicate that precipitation is likely to wrap up by Wednesday night, but cold temperatures are expected to persist. Lows could dip even further to around 20 degrees Fahrenheit on Thursday and Friday. This persistent cold weather poses a risk of refreezing and could lead to the formation of black ice on roadways, making travel increasingly hazardous.
Daytime temperatures for Thursday and Friday are projected to be in the 40s, transitioning to more temperate highs in the 50s and 60s over the weekend, with dry conditions expected to last into the following week.
If snow does accumulate during this upcoming winter event, it would constitute the third snowstorm this year in the Midlands region, where winter precipitation is generally uncommon. Previous winter storms that impacted the area occurred on January 10 and January 22. Notable snowfalls recorded during these events include nearly an inch at Columbia Metropolitan Airport and unofficial totals reaching as high as four inches in parts of Orangeburg County.
It’s noteworthy that the last significant snowfall in Columbia happened in January 2022, when the area experienced up to three inches from a winter storm. Current forecasts are showing varied confidence levels regarding the possibility of snow later next week, specifically targeting Tuesday or Wednesday for a developing storm system.
In light of impending winter weather impacts, the South Carolina Emergency Operations Center has activated a state of enhanced awareness (OPCON-2) to ensure preparedness. Additionally, Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency to facilitate efficient resource coordination as conditions are expected to worsen.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel during this potential winter weather event and to stay informed through local weather updates. As the storm system is projected to exit the region by early Saturday, January 11, preparedness and safety remain pivotal for those in affected areas.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- The State: Winter Weather in South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
- WACH: Winter Storm Impact in South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- WIS TV: Winter Weather Photos and Videos
- Google Search: Winter Storm South Carolina 2025
- Fox Carolina: State of Emergency Declared in South Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Snow
- WBTV: South Carolina State Emergency Winter Storm
- Google News: Winter Weather South Carolina
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