Winter Storm Hits Midlands of South Carolina

News Summary

A winter storm is sweeping through the Midlands of South Carolina, bringing snow and hazardous travel conditions. The National Weather Service warns of slippery roads and has issued advisories, leading to school closures and public transport adjustments. Residents are advised to stay safe and prepare for winter hazards, such as downed power lines and icy roads. The storm impacts various sectors, from schools switching to e-learning to airport travel delays. As conditions worsen, local authorities urge caution and preparedness to navigate the adverse weather.

Winter Storm Bashes Midlands of South Carolina

Columbia is in for quite a frosty surprise as a winter storm sweeps across the Midlands, bringing snow, advisories, and a slew of school closures. It’s that time of year when the weather can surprise us, and this one is packing a punch! On Tuesday night, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Columbia updated its winter weather advisory, sending a clear message: expect slippery roads and hazardous travel conditions through Wednesday morning.

Snow Accumulations and Road Conditions

Total snow accumulations are expected to vary significantly depending on where you live. Some areas in east central Georgia and central South Carolina could see anywhere from one to four inches of snow before all is said and done. This means that if you’re planning to head out Wednesday morning, be prepared for some slippery roads. It’s always a good idea to slow down and steer clear of unnecessary trips. Nobody wants a winter mishap!

When thinking about driving, keep in mind that on average, weather-related car accidents take the lives of over 6,000 people and injure more than 480,000 individuals annually across the nation. So, if temperatures hover around freezing, it’s safest to assume that roads could be icy. If you see black ice, steer clear!

Warnings and Advice for Safety

As snow begins to blanket the region, there are some important reminders for everyone. If you come across any downed power lines, do not touch them and make sure to call emergency services right away. We don’t want anyone getting hurt out there! And remember, if conditions are poor, it’s best to avoid driving altogether. If it’s necessary, try to choose a route that has fewer trees and power lines in sight. With all that snow and ice in the trees, falling branches could pose a real danger.

Local Impact and Community Response

By 6 p.m. Tuesday, reports indicated that snow was spreading across central South Carolina, with some areas including the Lexington and Columbia region observing the accumulation starting to pile up on cars and the road. With the NWS warning of continued hazardous conditions, many local government offices, schools, and recreational facilities have announced closures or switched to e-learning measures to keep everyone safe.

Richland County, for example, will not resume normal operations until 1 p.m. on Wednesday due to the potential for dangerous driving conditions. Similarly, travel operations at Jim Hamilton-L.B. Owens Airport are set to resume at 9 a.m. Wednesday, contingent upon the weather improving. It’s a good idea to check flight statuses if you’re air-bound!

School and Public Transport Adjustments

Across the region, schools are taking precautions as well. The University of South Carolina and Midlands Technical College are pushing back their start times to noon on Wednesday, while all districts in Lexington, Richland, Orangeburg, Sumter, and Clarendon have opted for e-learning days. Students will be logging into Google Classroom to keep up with their studies, allowing for flexibility during this winter wonderland of an adventure.

The COMET public transportation system has also made the tough decision to suspend service starting at 4 p.m. Tuesday, hoping to resume around 10 a.m. Wednesday, depending on conditions. Public safety is the priority, after all!

Preparation and Precautions

As residents brace for the cold, the NWS advises everyone to keep extra supplies in their vehicles, just in case of emergencies. Stocking up on items like a flashlight, snacks, and water can make all the difference should you get stuck. And for those worrying about getting stranded, the South Carolina National Guard has activated about 115 soldiers ready to assist with vehicle recovery efforts.

Stay Safe and Warm!

The cold weather advisory remains in place through Wednesday morning, with wind chill values predicted to dip to a bone-chilling 7 to 15 degrees. So, bundle up and stay warm out there, folks! Drive carefully and make sure to enjoy if you get to witness the beautiful snow falling down. Let’s hope the weather clears up quickly so we can all get back to our regular routines!