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Columbia Braces for Potential Second Weekend of Winter Weather
Forecasters predict rare snow, high winds, and bitter cold for the Midlands region over the weekend of January 31.
Jan. 28, 2026 at 3:31pm
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Meteorologists in Columbia, South Carolina are predicting significant snowfall, low temperatures in the mid-teens, and high winds over the weekend of January 31, potentially disrupting travel in the region. The forecast calls for a couple of inches of light, powdery snow, which is unusual for the area, as well as wind gusts over 30 mph. This comes just a week after Winter Storm Fern swept through the region, causing power outages and two weather-related deaths.
Why it matters
The combination of snow, bitter cold, and high winds could create dangerous travel conditions and potential power outages in the Midlands area. This is the second winter storm to hit the region in a week, raising concerns about the ability of local infrastructure and emergency services to respond effectively.
The details
The National Weather Service expects the snow to start falling as early as Friday evening, January 30, with the bulk of the snowfall occurring throughout the day on Saturday, especially in the evening hours, and potentially lingering into Sunday morning. Meteorologists say the snow will be lighter and fluffier than typical due to the continuing low temperatures. Exact snowfall totals are still uncertain, but the forecast currently calls for a 63% chance of 2 inches or more in Columbia, a 39% chance of 4 inches or more, and a 12% chance of 8 inches or more. The lack of ice means less risk to power lines, but the potential for blowing and drifting snow could still make travel dangerous. Rain and partially melted snow could also refreeze, leaving a layer of ice under the snowfall.
- The snow is expected to start falling as early as the evening of Friday, January 30.
- The bulk of the snowfall is forecast to occur throughout the day on Saturday, January 31, especially in the evening hours.
- The snowfall could potentially linger into Sunday morning, February 1.
The players
John Quagliariello
A meteorologist at the National Weather Service's Columbia office.
Justin Stevens
A spokesperson for the City of Columbia.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee
What’s next
The National Weather Service expects to issue Winter Storm watches in the northern and central Midlands the night of January 28, extending from the North Carolina border down through the Columbia area, possibly further south towards the Georgia line.
The takeaway
This second winter storm in a week highlights the challenges the Midlands region faces in preparing for and responding to extreme winter weather events, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. Local officials will need to closely monitor the forecast and be ready to make timely decisions to protect public safety.
