News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for the Lowcountry, effective from Tuesday evening to Wednesday morning. Residents should prepare for a significant wintry mix of snow, sleet, and ice, with accumulations potentially reaching up to three inches and a quarter-inch of ice. Several counties in Georgia and South Carolina are impacted, creating treacherous road conditions with a risk of black ice. Community members are encouraged to check on neighbors and prepare emergency kits as power outages are likely.
Winter Storm Watch Issued for Lowcountry
Attention, folks in the Lowcountry: It looks like we’re in for a chilly surprise this week! The National Weather Service (NWS) has officially issued a winter storm watch for our area, and it’s expected to last from Tuesday evening through Wednesday morning. So, grab your favorite hot drink and settle in, because there’s a wintry mix on the way!
What to Expect
The watch became effective late Sunday night and is set to kick off at 5 p.m. on Tuesday, lasting until noon on Wednesday. During this time, we can expect heavy mixed precipitation, which means snow, sleet, and a bit of ice. Total accumulations could reach between one to three inches of snow and sleet, along with the possibility of up to a quarter-inch of ice. That’s a pretty significant amount for our area!
Who Is Affected?
This storm watch impacts several counties in both Georgia and South Carolina. In Georgia, areas like Bryan, Chatham, Liberty, McIntosh, and Long will likely feel the chill. Down in South Carolina, Beaufort and Coastal Jasper counties should prepare, too. Essentially, if you’re in the Lowcountry, now’s the time to pay attention!
Road Conditions and Safety Tips
Now, let’s talk about the roads. If you had plans to hit the road during this storm, it’s time to rethink those plans. The NWS warns of treacherous road conditions, especially on bridges and overpasses. You know, those spots that always seem to freeze over first? Yes, those. With very cold temperatures expected, especially overnight on Wednesday, there’s a real potential for refreezing and black ice to form. It can sneak up on you, so stay alert!
Did you know that on average, over 6,000 people die and more than 480,000 are injured in weather-related vehicle crashes in the U.S. each year? That’s a staggering number! If you must go out during snowy or icy conditions, make sure to drive safely by slowing down and keeping your distance from other vehicles. And if temperatures hover around freezing, assume that there’s a good chance of ice being out there.
Preparing for Power Outages
Check on Your Neighbors
Travel Updates
Final Steps Before the Storm
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Severe Winter Storm Hits the United States
Arctic Blast Sweeping Across the U.S.
Columbia and South Carolina Brace for Winter Weather
Lowcountry Readies for Snow After Seven Years
Charleston Residents Prepare for Potential Snow and Ice
Charleston Braces for Chilly Weekend Ahead
Bluffton and Jasper County Water Main Upgrades Announced
Hilton Head Schools Lockdown Due to Gunfire Reports
Winter Weather Approaches: Charleston Prepares for Storm
Winter Weather Takes Eastern U.S. by Storm
Additional Resources
- Count on 2: Winter Storm Watch Issued for Lowcountry
- Wikipedia: Winter storm
- Count on 2: Arctic Air to Arrive in the Lowcountry
- Google Search: Winter weather preparation
- Post and Courier: Charleston International Airport and Winter Weather
- Google Scholar: Winter storm impact on transportation
- Count on 2: Charleston International Airport Prepares for Winter Weather
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter weather
