A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for Clarendon County from Friday evening through Sunday afternoon as forecasters continue to gain confidence that a snowstorm will impact the area this weekend, according to the National Weather Service and the South Carolina State Climate Office.
Snow is expected to begin as early as Friday night and continue through Saturday and into Saturday night, with hazardous travel conditions likely. While snowfall totals remain uncertain, Clarendon County is within the region with the best chance for accumulating snow, with current projections ranging from 2 to 5 inches.
Forecasters expect mainly snow, though light rain is possible at the onset of the system. Some areas of South Carolina’s Coastal Plain could briefly see sleet or freezing rain, but significant ice accumulation is not expected in Clarendon County. Officials say the snow should be dry and fluffy due to cold temperatures, reducing the risk of damage to trees and power lines and keeping the likelihood of power outages low.
The National Weather Service forecast for Clarendon County calls for mostly sunny conditions Friday with highs in the lower 50s, followed by snow developing Saturday morning and continuing through the afternoon. Highs Saturday are expected to reach only the mid-30s, with north winds of 10 to 15 mph and gusts up to 25 mph. Additional light snow is possible Saturday night, with lows falling into the mid-teens to near 20 degrees.
Road conditions may remain hazardous beyond the end of snowfall, as cold air behind the system is expected to limit melting during the day and allow refreezing at night. Travel impacts could persist into early next week, depending on snowfall amounts.
Winds are expected to increase during the storm, contributing to blowing and drifting snow where accumulation occurs. Wind chills are forecast to fall into the teens Saturday and Sunday, with some areas potentially dropping into the single digits Sunday night.
Meteorologists say forecast uncertainty remains due to the storm’s track and the amount of moisture available, but recent model trends have shifted toward higher snowfall potential. Residents are urged to monitor updated forecasts and limit travel during the storm.
Forecasts were current as of Thursday morning and are subject to change.
