This article explains the latest cold weather advisory for central South Carolina, what it means scientifically, and the practical steps you should take to stay safe.
Drawing on three decades of work in atmospheric science and public safety, I’ll break down the forecast, highlight the health and environmental risks, and clarify how this advisory differs from more serious extreme cold alerts.
Cold Weather Advisory: What’s Happening and Where
The National Weather Service (NWS) office in Columbia, South Carolina, has issued a cold weather advisory from Sunday 8 p.m. to Monday 10 a.m.
This is a short-duration but impactful event that will bring significantly colder conditions than typical for the region.
The advisory covers a broad area, including:
Residents, boaters, and travelers across these counties should plan for a sharp drop in temperatures and wind chills overnight into Monday morning.
How Cold Will It Feel?
While the actual air temperature may not sound extreme by northern standards, wind chills as low as 8°F are expected.
Wind chill is a scientifically calculated measure of how quickly your body loses heat when exposed to cold air and wind.
At these levels, bare skin can lose heat rapidly.
Prolonged exposure significantly increases the risk of hypothermia.
Health Risks: Hypothermia and Cold-Related Illness
Under these advisory conditions, the biggest concern is hypothermia, a dangerous drop in body temperature that occurs when heat is lost faster than it can be produced.
Even relatively short periods outdoors without proper clothing can be hazardous, especially late at night and early in the morning.
The NWS emphasizes covering exposed skin and dressing in layers to reduce cold stress on the body.
This is particularly important for vulnerable groups who may not sense or respond to the cold as efficiently.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Extra care should be taken to check on:
Frequent check-ins, warm shelter, and appropriate clothing are critical during the advisory period.
Practical Safety Tips for Residents
Staying safe in seasonably cold weather is largely about preparation and good judgment.
The NWS offers several key recommendations that are well-grounded in both medical and environmental science.
Dress for the Conditions
When traveling or spending any time outside, aim for:
Even quick trips to the car, mailbox, or store can be risky when wind chills are in the single digits.
Use Heating Devices Safely
While portable heaters can be lifesavers, they also introduce fire and poisoning risks if misused.
The NWS stresses:
Carbon monoxide is odorless and invisible, so prevention and proper ventilation are your only defenses.
Hazardous Conditions on Area Lakes
This advisory is not just about air temperature.
Strong winds over regional lakes will generate rough waves, creating dangerous conditions for small boats.
Cold air, cold water, and high winds are a risky combination.
Guidance for Boaters
Small craft are particularly vulnerable to capsizing in choppy water.
The NWS urges:
A sudden fall into cold water can rapidly lead to cold shock, impaired swimming ability, and hypothermia.
Advisory vs. Extreme Cold Warnings: Why It Matters
The current product is a cold weather advisory. This indicates seasonably cold conditions that can still pose health and safety risks without proper precautions.
It is not yet classified as an extreme cold warning or watch. Those are reserved for more severe, life-threatening events with even lower temperatures and wind chills.
The advisory explicitly notes the potential for worsening conditions. Residents are encouraged to prepare now by:
Here is the source article for this story: Cold weather advisory affecting Midlands Sunday and Monday – wind chills to drop to 8