COLUMBIA, S.C. -- The News19 Weather Team has issued a weather impact alert for Sunday and Monday mornings. Low temperatures are expected to drop into the low 20s, the coldest since January 2024.

The temperatures below freezing will occur during the six-hour timeframe from 2 a.m. to 8 a.m. on Sunday and Monday. Saturday was the first day of winter, which started at 4:21 a.m., and temperatures were at least seasonably near average.

That will change by Sunday.

When cold temperatures in the Midlands drop to the 20s, it typically signals a sharp cold snap, especially in regions with moderate winters. The 20s can bring several challenges, such as:

Frost and ice: Frost can cover the ground, trees, and surfaces, leading to icy conditions on roads and sidewalks. This can make driving and walking hazardous. Although no precipitation is forecasted, any water on surfaces will freeze.

Freezing pipes: If homes are not properly insulated, the cold can lead to frozen pipes, which can burst and cause significant damage. Precautions like letting faucets drip or wrapping exposed pipes are important.

Health risks: Prolonged exposure to temperatures in the 20s can increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia, especially for those not properly dressed in warm layers. This is why we urgently ask that you check on the elderly and vulnerable to ensure they have adequate means of staying warm at night and during the day.

Impact on agriculture: Farmers may be concerned about the cold harming crops, particularly in areas where plants are sensitive to freezing temperatures. Even if you aren't a farmer, if you have potted plants outside, you should bring them in. They will not survive these temperatures.

To prepare for a cold snap like this, it's crucial to dress warmly in layers, ensure that heating systems are working efficiently, and check on vulnerable individuals such as older adults.

South Carolina will experience unusually cool temperatures, with highs in the 40s and low 50s, significantly below the normal seasonal average for this time of year. During late December, average highs in South Carolina typically range from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, depending on the location.

This weather can lead to more winter-like conditions, with colder mornings less common in South Carolina in late December. If this trend continues, it could indicate a colder-than-usual winter for the region.