Columbia, SC Forecasts Weekend Snowfall

News Summary

Columbia residents are bracing for the possibility of snow this weekend as a weather front approaches. After experiencing a light dusting recently, the forecast indicates a 10% chance of snow Friday night into Saturday morning, with the potential for significant accumulation in some areas. While Friday may bring sunshine and cool temperatures, Saturday could see mixed precipitation and gusty winds, prompting residents to prepare for hazardous travel conditions. The Public Works Department is on standby to ensure road safety during this winter weather event.

Weekend Snow Potential Looming Over Columbia, SC

Columbia residents, brace yourselves! Following a recent dusting of winter magic with two inches of snow falling on January 21, you might want to keep your snow shovels handy once again. The chilly weather continues as we glance towards the forecast for this weekend. Is Columbia gearing up for another sparkly season of snow? Let’s break it down!

Weather Forecast: Sunshine and Chills

This weekend is looking to be an interesting mix. On Friday, expect to bask in the glow of abundant sunshine, with daytime temperatures reaching a cool 45°F. Light winds blowing from the north-northwest at 5 to 10 mph will keep things brisk, so bundle up if you’re heading outdoors! As night falls, temperatures are set to drop to a frosty 24°F. Make sure to tuck in extra warm before the temperatures take a dip!

Snow on the Horizon?

As we keep an eye on the forecast, there’s a 10% chance of snow lurking over parts of Columbia this weekend. With a weather front moving southeast, we can expect a few days of rain, wind, and moderately warmer temperatures until January 6, but hold onto your hats—the cold is coming back! The chilly air is forecasted to swoop in from January 7 to 9, bringing the possibility of snow, particularly for areas north of Interstate 20.

The National Weather Service is predicting that snow could make its debut Friday night and carry over into Saturday morning. If our luck holds, this might be the first substantial snowfall since January 2022, when Columbia saw between one and three inches of fluffy flakes.

Heavy Precipitation Expected

Exciting, isn’t it? But don’t get too excited just yet! Saturday night may bring heavy mixed precipitation, with snow accumulation forecasts between 4 and 11 inches in certain areas. This means if you’ve planned on traveling this weekend, you might want to take a moment to consider your options as it could lead to tricky travel conditions.

Advisories and Precautions

In the meantime, a wind advisory is currently in effect for Richland and Lexington counties, lasting from 6 AM to 7 PM. Residents should be prepared for possible gusts over 40 mph, which may add to the challenge of getting around. Furthermore, temperatures will remain below freezing throughout the week, making hazardous travel conditions possible, along with the likelihood of black ice.

Preparing for Winter Weather

The Columbia Public Works Department is not sitting idly by either. They are diligently preparing for the potential winter weather by getting snowplows ready and crews on standby to handle any downed power lines that may result from the storm conditions. Residents are encouraged to avoid travel during expected storm conditions, and if you must venture out, ensure your vehicle is parked away from priority routes to aid in snow removal efforts.

What’s Next?

As we gear up for this weekend, just know that the forecast indicates overnight temperatures in the mid-20s leading into Friday, with highs barely scraping the 40s. Keep your eyes on the sky as conditions may transition into rain, possibly melting away any snow that falls before it gets a chance to turn into a winter wonderland.

So, Columbia, stay prepared, and keep those winter gear ready for whatever surprises the weather has in store for us. Who knows, you might just be enjoying a charming snowy scene right outside your window before you know it!