A surge of frigid air is settling across South Carolina, bringing sharply colder temperatures, gusty winds and the potential for dangerous winter conditions through Friday morning, according to the National Weather Service and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.
In Clarendon County, daytime highs Thursday are expected to struggle to reach the low 40s, with overnight temperatures dropping into the upper teens to near 20 degrees. Similar lows are forecast across much of the Midlands and Pee Dee, while parts of the Upstate could see temperatures dip into the mid to upper teens. Wind chills may make it feel even colder, especially during the overnight and early morning hours.
High temperatures Friday are expected to rebound slightly, reaching the upper 40s to near 50 degrees in Clarendon County, but forecasters warn that another cold night is expected before a gradual warming trend begins.
Emergency officials say the cold snap highlights the risks winter weather can pose even in a state more accustomed to mild winters. Snow, ice and extended periods of freezing temperatures can damage property, close roads, disrupt utilities and create dangerous conditions for people and animals.
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division urged residents to take precautions, particularly for vulnerable populations. Officials recommend checking on elderly neighbors and those without adequate heating, bringing pets indoors, insulating exposed pipes, and covering or bringing inside cold-sensitive plants.
“Frigid temperatures are moving in today through Friday morning, along with stronger winds,” the agency said in a statement. “Stay cold weather aware.”
While no major winter storm is currently forecast for Clarendon County, officials emphasized the importance of understanding winter weather alerts should conditions change.
A Winter Storm Watch is issued when the risk of hazardous winter weather has increased but details such as timing or location remain uncertain. A Winter Storm Warning signals a significant event involving snow, ice, sleet or blowing snow, while a Winter Weather Advisory indicates wintry conditions that may cause inconvenience but are not expected to reach warning levels.
An Ice Storm Warning is typically issued when ice accumulation of around a quarter-inch or more is expected, which can make travel dangerous or impossible and lead to downed trees and power lines. Freezing rain occurs when rain freezes on contact with surfaces, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways and power lines, while sleet consists of ice pellets that can also create hazardous driving conditions.
Cold-related advisories may also be issued when temperatures alone pose a threat. A Freeze Warning indicates extended periods of freezing temperatures, while an Extreme Cold Warning is issued when dangerously cold air or wind chill values are occurring. An Extreme Cold Watch signals the potential for those conditions, and a Cold Weather Advisory is used when cold temperatures or wind chills are expected to significantly impact people or infrastructure.
Officials continue to urge residents in Clarendon County and across the state to monitor forecasts, limit time outdoors during the coldest periods, and use space heaters safely to reduce the risk of fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
More cold weather safety information is available through the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.
