South Carolina Prepares for Severe Cold Snap During Thanksgiving Weekend

South Carolina Braces for Frigid Thanksgiving Weather

As South Carolinians prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday, they are also advised to prepare for an unexpected blast of cold weather. The National Weather Service has reported that a significant drop in temperatures will begin late Thursday, marking one of the coldest air masses of the season.

Who is Affected?

Residents across the state, particularly in the Midlands and Upstate regions, need to be cautious as temperatures are expected to plummet significantly. According to meteorologist Tony Petrolito, this cold snap may lead to **hard freezes** that could damage pipes and vegetation.

What is Happening?

The weather forecast indicates that, while Thanksgiving Day will have relatively mild temperatures in the low 70s during the day and 40s at night, the situation will change drastically on Friday and Saturday. Daytime highs will remain in the 50s, with nighttime lows dipping into the 30s. By Sunday night, temperatures are predicted to fall into the low 20s.

Where is This Likely to Happen?

This cold wave will impact various regions of South Carolina. The Midlands will experience the temperature drop starting Friday. Residents in the Upstate can expect to see lows in the high 20s even earlier. Coastal areas, including Myrtle Beach, are also expected to feel the chill, with temperatures forecasted to drop into the low 20s by Tuesday evening.

When is This Occurring?

The cold weather is set to begin late Thursday and extend through the weekend, with the most intense cold expected to hit on Monday and Tuesday. According to Petrolito, “Tuesday looks to be the coldest day, with lows in the mid-20s.” This prolonged period of cold makes it crucial for homeowners to take precautions.

Why is This Important?

With the potential for hard freezes—defined as temperatures reaching 28 degrees Fahrenheit or lower for at least an hour—there are concerns about frozen and bursting pipes. A temperature drop to the low 20s can pose significant risks to both plumbing and seasonal plants, leading to substantial damage and repair costs.

Protecting Your Home

In light of the impending cold snap, it is vital for residents to take proactive measures to safeguard their homes. Here are some protective tips recommended by consumer protection organizations:

• Insulate outdoor pipes and faucets to prevent freezing.
• Keep garage doors closed, especially if there are water supply lines in the garage.
• Allow faucets to drip slightly; moving water is less likely to freeze.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing.
• Set your thermostat to a consistent temperature, even if you are away.

Weather Outlook

Aside from the biting cold, residents can expect clear and sunny skies from Friday through Tuesday. It’s a unique combination of pleasant weather coupled with dangerously low temperatures that could catch many off guard.

As Thanksgiving approaches, while families gather to celebrate, they must also remain vigilant about the unexpected cold. By taking necessary precautions, South Carolinians can protect their homes and ensure a safe holiday weekend.