Freezing rain and sleet are expected to create hazardous travel conditions across central South Carolina through Monday, prompting state officials to fully activate emergency operations as temperatures hover near freezing and ice accumulations become possible.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory through 1 p.m. Monday for Clarendon, Orangeburg, Bamberg and Barnwell counties, warning that freezing rain could produce ice accumulations of around one-tenth of an inch, enough to make roads slick and impact bridges, overpasses and untreated surfaces.
Forecasters say light drizzle or freezing rain is possible Saturday evening, with a greater chance of freezing rain developing late Saturday night as temperatures drop to around 29 degrees. The threat of ice is expected to continue into Sunday morning before precipitation transitions to rain later in the day as temperatures rise into the mid-40s.
Additional rainfall and possible thunderstorms are forecast Sunday night, followed by colder air returning Monday night, with lows expected to fall near 18 degrees by early Tuesday.
“These conditions may not look severe, but even light ice can create dangerous travel situations,” the National Weather Service warned, noting that impacts could extend into the Monday morning commute.
As winter weather settles in, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division moved the State Emergency Operations Center to Operating Condition One (OPCON 1) at 10 a.m. Saturday, fully activating hazard-specific emergency plans.
“One thing we want to be sure is to tell everybody to look out for your neighbors, look out for your family,” Gov. Henry McMaster said.
Emergency Management Director Kim Stenson said residents should finalize preparations immediately.
“The window to be ready for winter weather is closing fast,” Stenson said.
State agencies have mobilized ahead of the ice threat. The South Carolina Department of Transportation has moved to 24-hour operations, deploying approximately 3,000 personnel and pre-treating roads and bridges with more than 1.5 million gallons of brine. Law enforcement agencies have also activated round-the-clock coverage, with more than 500 officers statewide prepared to respond to traffic incidents.
Emergency officials report more than 180 requests have already been processed for shelter support, generators and other emergency resources. Thirteen general population shelters are currently open statewide, with additional shelters expected to open as conditions warrant.
Health officials have opened a triage line for residents who rely on electricity-dependent medical equipment. The South Carolina Department of Public Health’s Medical Equipment Power Shelter line is available 24 hours a day at 1-833-351-9990.
Officials urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel, especially overnight and early morning hours when freezing rain is most likely, and to prepare for potential power outages. Emergency kits should include food, water, medications, blankets, flashlights and batteries to last at least three days.
Residents are also encouraged to check on older adults, bring pets indoors, and take steps to protect private wells and livestock during extended cold conditions.
Up-to-date road conditions are available by calling 511, and additional winter weather safety information can be found at scemd.org.
