South Carolina officials are urging residents to prepare for a potentially dangerous winter storm this weekend, even as forecasters caution that the storm’s exact track and impacts remain uncertain.
Gov. Henry McMaster on Wednesday declared a State of Emergency ahead of a winter storm system expected to arrive Saturday and possibly linger through Monday. The declaration activates the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan, allowing state agencies to mobilize resources, coordinate response efforts, and prepare National Guard personnel and equipment for deployment if needed. Certain commercial vehicle regulations have also been suspended to help expedite emergency response efforts.
“South Carolinians should remain aware of local forecasts and take appropriate precautions ahead of this weekend’s storm, as winter weather can change quickly and create hazardous conditions with little notice,” McMaster said. “Preparations are already underway by state agencies, and this State of Emergency ensures Team South Carolina is ready to respond and support communities as conditions develop.”
The National Weather Service office in Columbia said Thursday morning that a Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Saturday morning through Monday afternoon for large portions of central and northern South Carolina. Forecasters continue to highlight freezing rain as the primary concern, with sleet and rain also possible depending on temperatures.
According to the National Weather Service and the South Carolina Emergency Management Division, ice accumulations could exceed one-quarter inch in parts of the northern Midlands and Pee Dee regions, where impacts typically worsen significantly. Even small changes in temperature could dramatically alter where the heaviest icing occurs, officials said.
Forecasts for the Midlands indicate rain Friday, followed by increasing chances of sleet and freezing rain Saturday afternoon and night. Saturday night lows are expected to fall into the mid-20s, with freezing rain likely. Rain or freezing rain may continue into Sunday before temperatures warm enough for rain by the afternoon.
Ice accumulation of a quarter inch or more can bring down tree limbs and power lines, while heavier amounts could lead to widespread and long-lasting power outages. Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly, especially on bridges and overpasses, which ice over first. Officials warn travel could become extremely hazardous or nearly impossible at times.
Duke Energy said it is preparing for the possibility of multiday outages from Winter Storm Fern and has mobilized more than 18,000 workers across the Carolinas, including lineworkers, tree crews and damage assessors. Crews from several other states are on standby and equipment is being staged in key locations to speed restoration once conditions are safe.
“While the forecast is still uncertain, it’s very possible that we could experience the Carolinas’ most extreme winter storm in over 20 years,” said Rick Canavan, Duke Energy’s storm director.
State emergency officials encourage residents to monitor forecasts closely, prepare emergency supply kits, charge electronic devices, bring pets indoors, and check on neighbors who may need assistance. Drivers are urged to stay off the roads during freezing conditions whenever possible.
Additional winter weather safety information is available through the South Carolina Emergency Management Division and the National Weather Service.
