A picturesque view of a South Carolina town blanketed in snow during the winter storm.
As winter weather affects much of the South, Columbia, SC braces for a significant winter storm. Snow and ice warnings are issued, prompting a state of emergency declaration by Governor McMaster. Residents are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions with potential road issues and power outages as winter temperatures drop.
As winter weather grips much of the South, Columbia, South Carolina, is bracing for a storm that the experts say could bring snow and ice to the region. The National Weather Service (NWS) is keeping a close eye on this chilly situation and has issued a warning for snow until 10:45 a.m. on Friday. Concerned residents in areas such as Northwestern Orangeburg, Central Orangeburg, Lexington, Richland, and Sumter counties are being urged to prepare as significant weather events take shape.
It’s not just talk—weather spotters reported light but steady snow and sleet starting to accumulate along the I-20 corridor in both eastern Georgia and across western and central South Carolina as early as 9:50 a.m. Roads, especially bridges and overpasses, are likely to see light snow accumulations, while elevated surfaces and sidewalks could be covered in more significant amounts. This means that folks in cities like Columbia, Sumter, Aiken, North Augusta, Lexington, West Columbia, Orangeburg, Cayce, Grovetown, and Evans should be extra cautious!
The roads are looking slippery! Major highways including Interstate 20, which runs from Georgia to South Carolina, and Interstate 26 are under the scanner for poor driving conditions. Even Interstate 95 could see some treacherous patches as the storm rolls through, particularly at mile markers ranging from 0 to 135. If you can avoid unnecessary travel until the weather calms down, that would be wise!
In light of the worsening forecast, Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency, signing Executive Order 2025-02. This order activates the South Carolina Emergency Operations Center to OPCON-2 level, preparing state resources to handle whatever comes next. Residents are reminded to check local weather updates and avoid unnecessary outings—better safe than sorry when it comes to potentially hazardous conditions.
The South Carolina Department of Transportation has been proactive, pretreating roads starting Wednesday, and they have both staff and equipment on standby to help manage the fallout from this storm. Still, the most severe of the weather is anticipated to kick in after 5 p.m. on Friday, which means anyone planning to commute should be especially cautious.
The impacts of this winter storm are still evolving, with forecasts indicating hazardous driving conditions, potential power outages, and tree damage. A winter storm advisory is in effect for the Midlands. Residents should prepare for potentially slippery conditions with up to a quarter-inch of ice accumulation predicted, particularly in the northern Midlands region. Bundle up; temperatures are set to drop significantly with a high of only 36 degrees and lows around 31 degrees.
The chilly weather may linger well into the weekend, so continue to monitor those forecasts. Local school districts in the Columbia area have already adjusted their schedules to keep students safe. So, hunker down, grab those blankets, and keep a hot cup of cocoa ready while this winter storm rolls through. Stay safe out there, South Carolina!
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