Winter Storm Impacts Columbia, SC: Snowfall and School Closures

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Snow-covered streets in Columbia SC during a winter storm

News Summary

Columbia, SC, faced a challenging winter storm with overnight snowfall leading to hazardous travel conditions for residents. Temperatures dropped significantly, prompting local schools to close and adjust schedules. The storm caused a mix of concern and excitement, as communities band together to navigate the snow. City facilities delayed openings, and residents are advised to exercise caution while driving. With snow accumulation predictions varying across regions, locals are urged to prioritize safety as they deal with the wintry weather.

Winter Storm Hits Columbia, SC: Schools and Communities Bracing for Snow

Columbia, South Carolina, woke up to a winter wonderland this Wednesday morning, but it didn’t come without challenges! Overnight, a significant amount of snow blanketed the area, creating hazardous travel conditions for early risers and commuters alike.

A Cold Snap Overview

Temperatures dipped into the low 20s, with a wind chill making it feel even colder—between 10 to 15 degrees! Due to this chilly forecast, a cold weather advisory was in effect until the morning. As people peeked out their windows, they noticed heavier snowfalls that began in the afternoon hours of Tuesday, tapering off between 2 AM and 4 AM on Wednesday.

Snow Accumulation Predictions

The snowfall predictions have updated, much to the surprise (and perhaps delight) of local residents. Here’s how much snow was expected across various areas:

Clarendon, Orangeburg, Sumter, and Calhoun Counties: 3-4 inches
Columbia area: 1-3 inches
Northern Areas: trace to 1 inch

It’s worth noting that even though the snow was predicted to finish by early morning, slick spots were likely to linger on roadways, impacting the morning commute.

Local School Districts Response

Lexington-Richland School District 5: All schools and offices closed, with a makeup day set for March 17.
Midlands Technical College: Reopening at noon on Thursday, with classes starting at 12:45 PM.
University of South Carolina: Also reopening at noon, but all in-person classes scheduled before noon were canceled.
USC women’s basketball game: Against LSU has been rescheduled for Friday.

City Responses

The city facilities in Columbia were also taking safety precautions, delaying their opening until 10 AM due to the dangerous road conditions. Similarly, the Richland County government planned to open at 1 PM, and branches of the Richland Library were set to open at noon. Over in Lexington County, administrative offices experienced a two-hour delay, while some libraries and judicial facilities also adjusted their opening times.

For residents in West Columbia, things took a different turn with City Hall remaining closed on Thursday due to the ongoing hazardous conditions.

Driving Cautions

As snow flurries danced through the air, the state highway patrol reminded residents to stay cautious on the roads. It’s a good idea to drive slowly, keep a safe distance from other vehicles, and avoid making drastic turns that could lead to trouble. A little extra care goes a long way, especially since bridges tend to freeze faster than regular roadways.

Need Help on the Road?

If you find yourself in distress while attempting to navigate through the snow, don’t forget you can reach out for assistance by dialing *HP (*47). Remember, safety is key during wintry weather!

In Conclusion

As Columbia grapples with this winter storm, residents are encouraged to stay informed and practice safety measures. Whether you’re at home enjoying a warm drink or hitting the roads, brace yourself for what Mother Nature has in store! While the snow may have caused some disruption, it also brings the region together as a community, reminding everyone to watch out for one another during these chilly times.