Winter Storm Warning Issued for Midlands Region

News Summary

A winter storm warning has been issued for the Midlands, including counties like Kershaw, Fairfield, and Newberry, as freezing rain and sleet are expected this Friday. Residents are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions, with potential ice accumulation leading to treacherous roads and possible power outages. Local officials recommend handling business online and staying updated on school schedule changes. The storm is forecasted to taper off by Saturday morning, but chilly temperatures will persist throughout the weekend.

Winter Storm Warning for Midlands as Snow and Ice Approach

The picturesque city of Columbia in South Carolina is gearing up for a serious wintry mix as a *winter storm warning* has been issued for parts of the *Midlands*. Residents are advised to prepare, as the *National Weather Service* forecasts that winter weather will begin impacting the area starting this Friday.

What’s Happening?

Counties such as Kershaw, Fairfield, Newberry, Saluda, and Edgefield are under the winter storm warning, while Richland, Lexington, Aiken, Calhoun, Orangeburg, and Sumter counties are facing a winter storm advisory. The warning is set to kick in from 10 a.m. on Friday and will last until 7 a.m. Saturday. Expect the greatest impacts after 5 p.m. on Friday, so make sure to stay tuned!

What Can We Expect?

This storm isn’t just a light dusting! Residents should prepare for potentially hazardous conditions as *freezing rain and sleet* are expected to blanket the region. Roads could become treacherous, leading to hazardous driving, tree damage, and even power outages. It’s essential to exercise caution, especially if you have to travel.

Areas located south of I-20 are under a winter storm advisory with light ice accumulations predicted, while northern Midlands areas above the I-20 corridor could see up to a quarter inch of ice. A mix of sleet and snow may accumulate, particularly in the afternoon and evening. Rain showers in Columbia could pile up to half an inch of precipitation, and with a 100% chance of precipitation on Friday, it’s going to be a wet and icy day!

Weather Dynamics

Monitor those temperatures, because even a small shift can have a significant impact on *ice accumulation*. Hazardous travel conditions are expected from noon Friday to Saturday morning, with the potential for black ice lingering into Sunday morning. A friendly tip: if you usually take a stroll or drive, it’s best to avoid the roads during this time!

Staying Safe

Richland County officials are urging folks to consider handling business online instead of in person, especially before noon on Friday. This precaution will help keep everyone safe and reduce the risk of accidents on icy roads. Plus, several school districts in the Columbia area have already adjusted their schedules in preparation for the storm. Stay informed about any changes if you have little ones in school!

Ice Woes

With these conditions, keep in mind that the weight of accumulated ice on trees may lead to downed limbs and power lines, which could cause outages. All forecasts suggest that the *freezing rain* will taper off by 7 a.m. Saturday, with no more frozen precip expected afterward. So hang tight, the *cold spell* won’t last forever!

Weekend Outlook

As for Saturday and into the weekend, temperatures will remain chilly, with highs only reaching the 40s and lows dipping down into the 20s. Surprisingly, these temperatures will be about *10 to 15 degrees below normal* for this time of year in South Carolina. If you plan on heading outdoors, bundle up because it’s going to be a cold one!

As we look ahead to the following week, forecasts indicate that this cold weather is not just a fleeting moment. So sit tight and stay warm as South Carolina braces for what’s to come!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Columbia Faces Icy Conditions After Recent Winter Storm
Severe Winter Storm Wreaks Havoc from Midwest to East Coast
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Possible Snowy Surprise in Columbia, SC This Weekend

Additional Resources

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