Sunny and Dry Weather Returned to Columbia

The Columbia region can expect clear skies throughout the weekend before temperatures climb next week.

Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Forecasts

A wide, clear blue sky hangs over a vast South Carolina pine forest on a bright, sunny day. — Sunny and dry conditions are expected to persist across the Columbia region through the weekend, according to recent weather forecasts. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Sunshine and drier air moved into the Midlands on September 25, 2026. Residents should anticipate pleasant, sunny conditions through the upcoming weekend.

Why it matters

The return of dry air offers a respite from previous conditions and sets the stage for a shift in regional temperatures. Monitoring these patterns is important as the area enters a period of late-season heat.

Saturday highs are forecast to reach near 80 degrees, while Sunday temperatures will climb into the lower to middle 80s. Highs are expected to reach the upper 80s early next week, with 90-degree temperatures possible by mid-week.

The details

Clear skies have returned to Columbia following a shift in air mass, bringing stable conditions for outdoor activities throughout the weekend. The trend will transition early next week as a warming pattern develops, bringing higher temperatures to the city.

September 25, 2026: Sunshine and dry air returned to the Midlands.
September 26-27, 2026: Sunny and dry weather is forecast for the weekend.
Week of September 28, 2026: Temperatures will increase to the 80s and 90s.
Late next week: Rain chances may potentially increase.

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Seasonal Patterns

The transition to 90-degree temperatures next week follows typical seasonal fluctuations for South Carolina as documented by the National Weather Service's heat advisory thresholds. This shift reflects common late-September weather patterns in the Midlands region.

Residents planning outdoor activities this weekend should take advantage of the sunny, dry conditions. Those sensitive to heat should prepare for rising temperatures heading into next week.

The takeaway

The weekend provides a brief window of milder, dry air before a late-season warm-up arrives next week. Residents should stay hydrated and adjust outdoor plans accordingly as temperatures trend toward the 90s.