News Summary
Governor Henry McMaster has declared a State of Emergency in South Carolina as a winter storm is set to impact the region, bringing snow, sleet, and freezing rain. The state’s Emergency Operations Center is on alert, and residents are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions, including potential power outages. Reports indicate early winter weather hazards with many accidents on the roads. Authorities and community resources are mobilizing to support affected residents during this significant weather event.
State of Emergency in South Carolina: Winter Storm Set to Hit
As the winter chill sweeps through South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster has wasted no time in declaring a State of Emergency—executive order 2025-02—in anticipation of a significant winter storm. The <>South Carolina Emergency Operations Center has moved to Operation Condition 2 as of 10:00 AM on Friday to respond to the expected severe weather conditions.
What to Expect from the Storm
The weather forecast indicates a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain that will start impacting the state on Friday, extending into the weekend. Residents should brace themselves, as predictions highlight potential snowfall reaching between 1-3 inches in the Upstate, with northern Greenville and mountainous areas likely to see even more. Additionally, this ugly winter weather will include ice accumulation ranging from 1/10th to 1/4th of an inch, particularly in areas south of I-85.
Stay Safe, Stay Informed
Residents are strongly urged to avoid unnecessary travel and keep an eye on local weather updates. The South Carolina Department of Transportation was proactive, beginning road pretreatments on Wednesday in anticipation of the upcoming storm. Motorists are encouraged to check the weather forecast frequently, as conditions can change rapidly.
Prepare for Power Outages
In case of significant power outages, major energy companies, including Duke Energy and Blue Ridge Energy, have prepared additional crews and resources to tackle any challenges that may arise. As this storm rolls in, residents are encouraged to be aware of how to report power outages in their area.
Early Friday Hazards
As the storm began its assault on Friday, reports of over 100 car accidents surfaced in the Upstate, highlighting the hazardous road conditions caused by the severe winter weather. Early readings from various counties showed snowfall totals lower than anticipated, particularly with Greenville receiving around 1-2 inches of snow and approximately a quarter inch of freezing rain.
Emergency Measures and Community Support
To tackle the situation, emergency measures have been implemented, leading to the closure of community centers and transportation services in affected areas. City officials anticipate that regular operations will resume on Monday. To help the vulnerable community during this extreme weather, various shelters and warming centers are now open to assist homeless individuals.
Precautionary Measures for Residents
Residents should stay safe by keeping their vehicles in good condition, knowing how to report any power outages, and being prepared for severe cold with alternative heating sources. As icy conditions create potential hazards, city officials are cautioning about the presence of black ice on roads. It’s essential to exercise caution while driving or walking outdoors as temperatures continue to hover below freezing.
Get Involved
For those who encounter road hazards or any weather-related issues, aid is available through community resources such as the MyCivic App to report problems reliably. By staying informed and vigilant, we can all weather this winter storm together. So, grab your snow boots, stay cozy indoors, and let’s ride out this chilly storm South Carolina!
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Additional Resources
- WYFF4: Snow & Ice in South Carolina
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
- Greenville Online: Winter Storm Prep
- Google Search: Winter Storm Preparation
- GoLaurens: State of Emergency Declared
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Weather
- Greenville Online: Upstate Weather Update
- Google News: South Carolina Winter Storm
