South Carolina Braces for Returning Rain Late Thursday as NWS Warns of Overnight Showers and Possible Travel Hazards Friday Morning
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA – A fresh round of rainfall is heading toward the Midlands and the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA), with the National Weather Service (NWS) warning that showers will move in late Thursday night and linger into early Friday. After two days of calm, chilly weather, the region is preparing for a wet and potentially messy start to the weekend.
Dry Start to the Week Before Conditions Shift Thursday
Forecasters say Wednesday and most of Thursday will remain dry as South Carolina sits between weather systems. High temperatures today are expected to stay between 48°F and 54°F, with overnight lows dipping into the low and mid-30s under partly cloudy skies.
A brief warm-up follows on Thursday, pushing afternoon highs into the 52°F to 59°F range. But the sunshine will not last long — cloud cover will thicken through the day as the next weather system approaches from the west.
Rain Moves in Late Thursday Night
The NWS expects showers to begin spreading across the region after sunset Thursday, with rain continuing overnight and into Friday morning.
Forecasters say moderate to locally heavy rainfall is possible during the overnight hours. While the system is not expected to produce severe thunderstorms, the timing raises concerns for morning commuters across Columbia and nearby cities.
The NWS notes that ponding on roads, reduced visibility, and slick surfaces may develop before sunrise Friday — especially in low-lying areas or places that typically drain slowly.
Friday Morning Travel Could Be Impacted
With rain expected to linger into early Friday, drivers are urged to plan for slower travel and wet conditions. Even without severe weather, early-morning road hazards can develop quickly when rain falls on cold surfaces.
Meteorologists say the first half of Friday may stay unsettled until the system gradually shifts eastward.
Cooler, Drier Air Expected This Weekend
Forecast confidence remains moderate regarding the weekend pattern, but current NWS guidance suggests that the rain will clear out by early Saturday. Behind the departing system, cooler and drier air will settle into the region, bringing a return to more stable conditions.
Residents are encouraged to keep rain gear nearby and monitor updated forecasts as new model data arrives.
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