Winter Weather Disrupts Plans in Columbia and Lexington

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Snow-covered streets in Columbia SC during winter

News Summary

A surprise winter storm hit Columbia, SC, on Wednesday, covering the Midlands area in snow and ice. With reported snowfall up to 1.5 inches, many schools and local businesses faced closures and delays. The Lexington-Richland School District announced the closure of all its schools, while city facilities in Columbia opened later to ensure safety. Residents are advised to stay informed about weather updates and exercise caution on the roads as the cold weather continues.

Winter Weather Disrupts Columbia and Lexington Plans

Columbia, SC, woke up to a chilly surprise on Wednesday morning as snow and icy conditions blanketed the Midlands area following an overnight snowfall. Many residents were greeted by a fluffy layer of snow on their doorsteps, with reports of up to 1.5 inches measured in various parts of the region. Despite the picturesque scenery, the weather created quite a challenge for commuters, schools, and local businesses.

As of 9:18 a.m., temperatures hovered in the brisk mid-20s, leading to slippery roads and dangerous driving conditions. The winter wonderland extended all the way to the Grand Strand area near the coast, where several inches of snow accumulated. But don’t let that picturesque view fool you; it comes with a significant freeze. Unfortunately, these cold temperatures are expected to stick around, making Thursday morning just as frosty.

School Closures and Delays

In light of the adverse weather, numerous closures and delays swept through the Midlands. The Lexington-Richland School District 5 announced that all schools and offices would be closed on Thursday. To make up for the lost day, March 17 has been designated as a makeup day, ensuring students don’t miss out on their education.

Meanwhile, Midlands Technical College let students know that the campus would be reopening at noon on Thursday, with classes starting at 12:45 p.m. for eager learners who can brave the roads. Similarly, the University of South Carolina won’t be letting the weather hold them back for too long, with campus reopening at noon and in-person classes after that point remaining scheduled unless further notice is shared. Online classes, thankfully, will continue as planned. In a sporting twist, the USC women’s basketball game against LSU has been rescheduled to Friday at 5 p.m., giving fans something to look forward to!

City Services and Government Operations

The City of Columbia is also keeping up with the changes, with city facilities opening later than usual at 10 a.m. on Thursday due to concerns over black ice and hazardous road conditions. Residents have been encouraged to access city services online or via phone while they wait. Thankfully, public safety and essential services will continue to operate normally, ensuring residents are still taken care of.

Richland County government offices plan to reopen for regular operations by 1 p.m., while the Richland Library branches are set to open at noon on Thursday. Lexington County is implementing similar measures, with administrative offices operating on a two-hour delay, opening at noon. Judicial facilities and various offices will open at 10 a.m., so residents shouldn’t lose out on vital services!

Transportation and Miscellaneous Updates

In regard to road logistics, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has rescheduled its meeting that was supposed to take place on Thursday to January 31. Staying proactive in these winter weather conditions is key!

Moreover, the City of West Columbia will remain closed on Thursday, prioritizing community safety in light of the hazardous road conditions.

With these closures and delays in effect, residents across Columbia and Lexington are advised to stay safe, monitor weather updates closely, and take necessary precautions if venturing out. Despite the disruptions, let’s appreciate the beauty of winter and stay warm out there!