Upstate South Carolina Faces Winter Weather Warning

Upstate South Carolina Faces Winter Weather Warning

Residents Gear Up for a Chilly Friday and Saturday

Here in Upstate South Carolina, the winter weather has officially made its mark! As the snow begins to blanket the area, the National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning that will last until 7 a.m. Saturday. This isn’t just a local affair—neighbors in parts of Piedmont North Carolina and northeast Georgia are also feeling the chill with snowy conditions already underway.

Friday morning kicked off with the icy grip of winter as flurries began to fall, laying the groundwork for a snow-filled day. According to weather experts, we can expect a mix of snow and sleet throughout the day, especially after 4 p.m. They estimate a total snow accumulation of anywhere from one to three inches, with some areas in the mountains potentially seeing up to four inches!

What to Expect

If you’re planning to venture out, it’s wise to be cautious. The combination of snow, sleet, and the looming threat of freezing rain poses a significant risk to road conditions, making many routes hazardous and even impassable. Local authorities have already warned of potential black ice, particularly on bridges and overpasses where the temperatures are expected to drop into the mid and upper 20s overnight.

But it doesn’t stop at the roads—there’s also the concern of isolated power outages due to heavy snow and ice accumulating on tree limbs and power lines. So, if you rely on power for heating, make sure you have a backup plan ready just in case!

Daily Breakdown

As for the rest of the day, here’s a quick look at what Friday and Saturday have in store:

• Friday: Expect snow and sleet throughout the day, tapering off to mostly sleet by the evening. The high will be around 33 degrees with a chance of precipitation hitting a whopping 90%.
• Friday Night: As snowfall and sleet continue until early Saturday, temperatures will drop to around 27 degrees. Be prepared for patchy fog as well!
• Saturday: The fog should clear up by 9 a.m., making way for a mostly sunny day with highs estimated to reach 41 degrees. Just remember, whatever snow melts during the day is likely to refreeze once the sun goes down.
• Saturday Night: Clear skies are forecast, with temperatures dropping to near 19 degrees—so bundle up if you’re heading out!
• Sunday: A bright sunny day ahead with a high near 38 degrees, followed by a chilly night in the low 20s.

Preparation is Key

Considering traveling? Please plan ahead! The weather reports emphasize that Friday morning and evening commutes could be particularly tricky due to these conditions. If you find yourself on the road, you’ll want to drive with extreme caution, keeping an eye out for any signs of black ice or hazardous spots.

As we brave through this brisk winter weather, let’s keep an eye on our neighbors and check in on anyone who might need a helping hand. After all, we’re all in this snowy situation together!

Stay warm, Upstate South Carolina, and let’s make the most out of this winter wonderland. Happy snow day!