Winter Weather Hits Columbia: State of Emergency Declared as Snow and Ice Approaches

Winter Weather Hits Columbia: A State of Emergency Declared

Columbia, S.C. – As winter weather sweeps across the Palmetto State, Governor Henry McMaster has taken action by issuing Executive Order 2025-02 on Friday. This order officially declares a State of Emergency to bolster the state’s response to the impending snow, sleet, and ice that could significantly impact South Carolinians.

As of 10:00 AM today, the South Carolina Emergency Operations Center entered Operation Condition 2, enabling emergency teams to prepare for the challenging weather conditions. Governor McMaster emphasized the seriousness of the situation, noting that forecasts predict conditions might intensify sooner than previously expected. “Our state’s emergency teams are fully prepared, and this State of Emergency will provide them additional support to respond to the winter weather moving across our state,” he stated.

Weather Forecast and Safety Precautions

The National Weather Service has issued warnings of significant snow, sleet, and ice beginning Friday, with much of the state facing potential travel hazards. “We’ve faced snow and ice storms in the past, and we are fully prepared to respond to any requests for assistance from our local emergency managers,” said Kim Stenson, Director of the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.

In anticipation of the weather, the South Carolina Department of Transportation began pretreating roads and highways on Wednesday, making necessary preparations to protect the infrastructure. Governor McMaster previously acknowledged the need for adjusted transportation regulations in Executive Order 2025-01 to assist with winter logistics.

Travel Advisories and Recommendations

As conditions can change rapidly, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety is advising residents to check the weather forecast regularly. They urge people to avoid unnecessary travel, emphasizing that state troopers will be closely monitoring roadways for any potential hazards.

Should you find yourself on the road during the storm, here are some crucial safety tips to keep in mind:

• Ensure your vehicle is in good condition with checked fluids, battery, and tires.
• Keep extra blankets and snacks in your vehicle in case of delays.
• Always call 911 for life-threatening emergencies only.
• Maintain your cell phone’s charge for emergency communications.
• Know how to report power outages to your utility company.

Staying Warm and Prepared at Home

Power outages can sometimes accompany severe weather, so being prepared is essential. Here are some friendly reminders to keep your household safe and warm:

• Monitor local news for updates on warming shelters.
• Protect your water pipes by wrapping them and letting faucets drip if necessary.
• Have an adequate supply of dry wood if you’re using a fireplace.
• Properly vent kerosene heaters and never use portable generators indoors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Ensure anything that can burn is kept at least three feet away from heaters to prevent fire risks.

Additionally, don’t forget about your furry friends! Check on pets and make sure they can access food and water without obstruction due to ice. If possible, bring them indoors during the cold.

Lastly, remember to check on neighbors, especially those who may need extra support during these chilly days. Let’s come together as a community to ensure everyone stays warm and safe!

Conclusion

Winter weather can be tough, and it’s important to heed the advice of local officials as our state braces for a chilly weekend ahead. With the right precautions and a sense of community, we can navigate this weather with care. Stay warm, Columbia!