A powerful cold front is ushering a modified arctic air mass into the region, setting the stage for a dramatic plunge in temperatures that will stretch from the Upstate to the beaches.
Forecast models have had a good handle on the situation for several days, with guidance continuously suggesting widespread subfreezing temperatures across the state.
The latest model runs indicate lows in the mid-20s along the I-85 corridor, upper 20s near and along I-20, and lower 30s east of I-95, including coastal communities where it is more difficult to see freezing weather due to the warm Atlantic Ocean.
Temperatures are generally expected to reach the freezing point shortly after sunset on Monday evening and will remain there until after sunrise on Veterans Day, making for a cold start to commemorative events on the federal holiday.
Due to the expected temperatures, National Weather Service meteorologists have issued Freeze Warnings for much of the state, marking the first of the season for many South Carolinians.
Forecasters are encouraging everyone to take precautions to protect the “three main Ps” - people, pets, and plants - during this unusually harsh early-season cold snap.
Even a few hours of below-freezing temperatures can be enough to damage sensitive vegetation and pose risks to humans and pets without adequate shelter.
Because the ground remains relatively warm from temperatures that recently reached the 80s, widespread issues with pipes and pools are not anticipated. However, experts say the incoming cold spell should serve as a reminder that now is the time to address potential weaknesses before more persistent winter weather arrives.
Insulating exposed pipes, maintaining pool equipment and removing outdoor hoses from spigots are all simple but effective steps to prepare for the colder months ahead.
In addition to the frigid air temperatures, gusty northwesterly winds will add an extra bite to the chill.
Wind gusts of 10 to 20 mph on Tuesday morning will make it feel as much as 10 degrees colder than the actual air temperature.
The bone-chilling cold is just a one-night event, as westerly to southwesterly winds will allow for some moderation Tuesday evening into Wednesday, with temperatures expected to only near the freezing mark during the remaining days of the workweek.
Temperatures are expected to reach above-average values by the end of the week and could stay in the above normal category for a lengthy stretch of time.