News Summary
Residents of Columbia, SC, are preparing for a significant winter storm, expected to impact travel and safety from Friday noon until Saturday morning. A winter storm warning has been issued for several counties, forecasting freezing rain and sleet leading to hazardous driving conditions and possible power outages. Schools are adjusting schedules while city services are poised to respond with snowplows and warming centers. As temperatures drop, the community is urged to stay informed, prepared, and help each other during this frigid event.
Winter Weather Alert for South Carolina: Brace for Icy Conditions!
As winter settles in, Columbia residents are getting ready for a weather event that could make traveling quite treacherous. A winter storm warning has been issued starting at 10 a.m. Friday and lasting until 7 a.m. Saturday. The heart of this storm is set to strike after 5 p.m. Friday, so it’s time to plan ahead!
What’s Happening?
Counties under the warning include Kershaw, Fairfield, Newberry, Saluda, and Edgefield. Meanwhile, a winter storm advisory has been set for Richland, Lexington, Aiken, Calhoun, Orangeburg, and Sumter counties. Expect some icy conditions as freezing rain and sleet are in the forecast. This could lead to hazardous driving conditions and possible power outages!
The Forecast
This storm is particularly tricky since there’s a 100% chance of precipitation on Friday. While heavy snow isn’t expected, areas in northern Midlands may see up to a quarter inch of ice from freezing rain. There could be some sleet and light snow accumulation, mainly during the afternoon and evening on Friday. Folks in Columbia should prepare for up to half an inch of rain throughout the day!
Travel Warnings
Traveling this weekend? Be cautious! Drivers should expect challenging conditions from noon Friday until Saturday morning. There’s the likelihood of black ice forming, especially if temperatures drop as expected. This could extend into Sunday, so take extra care on those roads!
School and Business Adjustments
Many school districts in the Columbia area are adjusting their schedules to combat the potential hazards from the weather. Residents are advised to take care of any business online or wrap up any in-person tasks before noon on Friday. Better safe than sorry!
Preparing for the Storm
As this storm approaches, people should keep in mind the possible tree damage and power outages due to ice accumulation. That lovely frozen rain might look pretty on the trees, but it can cause branches to snap and power lines to down unexpectedly.
The Weekend Outlook
As the storm begins to taper off by 7 a.m. Saturday, the weekend will bring cold and dry conditions. Temperatures are expected to plummet, reaching highs in the 40s and lows dipping into the 20s. That’s around 10 to 15 degrees below normal for this time of the year. So warm up those winter jackets and snuggle in!
City Services and Support
The city has got you covered! Columbia’s 19-person snowplow crew will be on duty overnight to manage those priority routes. Don’t worry about your trash; both fixed-route bus services and recycling pickups will continue as scheduled on Friday, with minor adjustments made for Monday. Warming centers and shelters will remain open throughout the inclement weather, so there are resources available for those in need.
Conclusion
All in all, this winter storm is shaping up to be one to remember. Whether it’s icy roads or power outages, it’s important to stay informed and prepared. Be sure to check on your neighbors, stay warm, and embrace the winter wonderland—safely!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Winter Storm Warning Issued for Midlands Region
Midlands Schools Implement Early Dismissals for Winter Weather
Cold Weather Shelters Open in the Midlands
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Winter Storm Set to Blanket Upstate South Carolina
Columbia Faces Icy Conditions After Recent Winter Storm
Snow Possible This Weekend in Columbia, South Carolina
Possible Snowy Surprise in Columbia, SC This Weekend
Columbia Prepares for 12th Annual Three Kings Day Festival
Riverbanks Zoo Celebrates January with Wild Lights Event
Additional Resources
- The State: Winter Weather Alert for South Carolina
- KOMU: Columbia Snowplow Crews Prepare for More Snow
- ABC 17 News: MoDOT Maps Show Columbia Roads Covered in Snow
- AOL: Columbia Area Schools Adjusting Class Schedules
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
