South Carolina News Roundup: DNC Puts Palmetto State First in 2028 Primary, Dangerous Heat and More

Published Aug 16, 2026 · Community · Red Rock Daily staff

Here’s a roundup of recent South Carolina news: Democrats gave final approval to a 2028 presidential primary calendar that starts with South Carolina; dangerous heat is forecast across the state this weekend; thousands of University of South Carolina freshmen moved into Columbia for the new school year; the Charleston area has logged 45 school bus air-conditioning issues since the 2026-27 year began; and the state has sent a hurricane response team to Hawaii.

DNC finalizes 2028 primary calendar with South Carolina first

Democrats gave final approval to their 2028 presidential primary calendar, with South Carolina officially set as the first contest. The vote locks in the Palmetto State’s leadoff position for the next presidential cycle. (CBS News, NBC News, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Hill, Aug. 15-16, 2026)

Dangerous heat expected across South Carolina this weekend

South Carolina will experience dangerous heat this weekend, with forecasters warning of high heat-index readings and spotty storms in some areas. (South Carolina Public Radio, WYFF, Aug. 15, 2026)

Thousands of USC freshmen move into Columbia campus

Thousands of University of South Carolina freshmen moved into the Columbia campus for the start of the new school year. (WIS News 10, Aug. 15, 2026)

Charleston area logs 45 bus AC issues since school year began

The Charleston area has logged 45 school bus air-conditioning issues since the 2026-27 school year began, officials said. (WCIV, Aug. 15, 2026)

South Carolina sends hurricane response team to Hawaii

South Carolina has sent a hurricane response team to Hawaii to assist with recovery efforts there. (WLTX, Aug. 15, 2026)

For more on the Palmetto State, see the South Carolina guide.