Support Us Button Widget

Winter weather forecast in Columbia, South Carolina 2021

snow

Assembly Street in the snow in 1973 | Image via The State Newspaper Photograph Archive via Richland Library

It’s a winter-ful life ❄️
Hey, Soda Citizens — with winter on the way weather you like it or not, we couldn’t resist peeping at some of the major weather trends headed our way. Thanks to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Climate Prediction Center, we know what temperatures and precipitation trends to expect for Dec., Jan., + Feb.

While exact weather conditions like snowfall typically can’t be predicted more than a week in advance, accurate seasonal outlooks can help communities prepare for what winter will bring. Here’s what’s coming in our city:

🌡️ Temperature

Think warm. This winter, there is a 50-60% chance that Columbia’s temperatures will be higher than normal.

🌨️ Precipitation

Let it snow...or rain. Columbia’s precipitation levels are predicted to be 33-40% below our 2.9 inch average. DYK — Columbia received a record snowfall of 16 inches in Feb. 1973?

By the month: December

Columbia’s average low-temperature in December is 39°F, so we might see more days this year closer to the average high-temperature — 61°F — because of the anticipated temperature rise.

By the month: January

Columbia’s lows in January are 36°F on average, with highs of 58°F. January tends to be Columbia’s coldest month, but with the chance of higher temperatures this season, we might see warmer days. DYK — January is the month with the most snowfall in Columbia with 1.1 inches on average? Two of our snowiest calendar days are Jan. 23 + 24.

By the month: February

Historically, February gets a little warmer in Columbia with an average low-temperature of 39°F + an average high-temperature of 63°F, so expect to be closer to those highs.

Fun fact — The average amount of sunshine on a February day in Columbia is 6.49 hours.

Bonus: here are the NOAA’s winter safety tips. ❄️

More from COLAtoday
Columbia, SC has 230+ years of history. In this guide, we’re diving into the city’s oldest streets and how they got their names.
Discover Columbia’s late-night dining spots, from Tex-Mex and pizza to pub fare and desserts, perfect for post-11 p.m. cravings.
With a history dating back thousands of years, museums in the Midlands showcase the history of the area, from the earliest settlers to the the trains that transformed cities and towns.
Explore these dog-friendly businesses in Columbia that span from places to eat, drink, shop, exercise, and stay the night.
Check out these 11 hiking trails catering to all skill levels in and around Columbia, SC, for outdoor adventures.
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up 10 farmers markets around Columbia, SC.
If you’re planning a tubing trip with friends or family, this guide is for you and highlights everything you need to know about tubing down the river in Columbia
Every year, Columbia hosts the SC Juneteenth Freedom Festival (SCJFF) and we’re breaking down how you can get involved around town.
Rivers, lakes + streams, oh my. The Midlands has some pretty great freshwater fishing spots and is only about an hour from saltwater. Reference this guide before you fish around Columbia.
Curious about rent in Columbia? We broke down how local prices compare to national averages and trends.