COLUMBIA, S.C. – The News19 Weather Team has issued a Weather Impact Alert for early next week, warning residents across the Midlands to prepare for a sharp drop in temperatures and freezing conditions beginning Monday morning.
After a stretch of warm and sunny weather, a powerful cold front will move through the region this weekend, ushering in a blast of Arctic air that will send morning lows into the 20s and low 30s by Tuesday.
Major Temperature Drop Ahead
Forecasters say Monday will mark the start of a dramatic cooldown. High temperatures will only reach around 52°F, followed by overnight lows near 30°F Monday night. By Tuesday morning, temperatures are expected to dip into the upper 20s, with frost and freezing conditions persisting through Wednesday morning.
“The sudden cold snap could pose a risk to outdoor plants, pets, and exposed pipes,” said the News19 Weather Team, urging residents to take precautions before the front arrives.
Warm Weekend Before the Freeze
Before the cold front sweeps through, the Midlands will enjoy one more mild and pleasant weekend.
Saturday will bring highs near 79°F under mostly sunny skies. A few spotty showers could appear early in the morning between 7 and 9 a.m., and again late at night in northern areas such as Newberry, Winnsboro, and Camden.
Sunday will remain warm and breezy, with highs in the upper 70s and a few stray showers possible as the front approaches from the northwest.
Cold Air Settles in Monday
Behind the weekend front, a surge of cold, dry air will dominate the region. Monday will feel much colder, with temperatures nearly 25 degrees lower than the weekend’s highs. Winds will make it feel even chillier during the morning commute.
By Monday night, lows are forecast to drop to around 30°F, followed by mid-20s early Tuesday. Residents can expect widespread frost both Tuesday and Wednesday mornings before gradual warming returns.
“This will be the first widespread freeze of the season,” meteorologists said. “Take time this weekend to protect sensitive vegetation and outdoor plumbing.”
Conditions Improve by Midweek
The cold spell will be short-lived. By Thursday, temperatures should rebound into the 60s, with dry and sunny conditions returning across much of the Midlands.
Still, forecasters are encouraging residents to stay alert for forecast updates, as small changes in wind direction or cloud cover could influence how cold it gets overnight.
Residents are advised to:
- Cover outdoor plants or bring them indoors before Monday night.
- Protect pets and livestock from overnight cold.
- Wrap exposed pipes to prevent freezing or bursting.
Are you ready for freezing mornings in the Midlands? Share your preparation tips and stay updated on verified local weather alerts and forecasts only on HonkNews.com.