News Summary
Residents in the Columbia area of South Carolina are preparing for potentially hazardous winter weather as the National Weather Service forecasts a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow. The adverse conditions, expected to start on Wednesday, may lead to hazardous driving conditions and increased risks for traffic delays. With temperatures set to dip below freezing, local authorities are implementing snow management measures to keep priority routes safe. As winter weather approaches, citizens are advised to stay updated and prepared for travel disruptions.
South Carolina residents in the Columbia area are bracing for potential winter weather as the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a warning regarding a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow expected this week. The wintry conditions are forecasted for Wednesday as a low-pressure system approaches the coast, bringing anticipated precipitation to the Midlands area throughout the day and into the night.
Meteorologists predict that sub-freezing temperatures will gradually extend into the northern counties of South Carolina. The likelihood of a wintry mix is particularly high in these northern regions, extending into parts of North Carolina. However, uncertainties surrounding the temperature in the Midlands on Wednesday mean that if the weather remains too mild, only rain may occur in Columbia.
Weather forecasts indicate that temperatures may dip below freezing by Wednesday night, possibly reaching a low of 30 degrees Fahrenheit. There is a 30% chance of precipitation, with expectations of less than half an inch falling mainly in the form of a wintry mix. Observations suggest that up to a tenth of an inch of mixed precipitation is likely, although localized areas could see heavier amounts.
Driving conditions could become hazardous due to potential ice formation and limited visibility, prompting increased risks for traffic delays. In preparation for the adverse weather, the South Carolina Department of Transportation has begun applying salt brine to the roads, initially addressing interstate and primary routes before moving to secondary roads, particularly in the Upstate area.
Even though the winter weather is expected to taper off by Wednesday night, cold temperatures will persist into Thursday and Friday. Forecasts predict an overnight low of 20 degrees on Thursday night, further elevating the risk of black ice formation as any melted precipitation could refreeze. Daytime highs on Thursday and Friday may reach only the 40s, but a warming trend is anticipated over the weekend with temperatures rising into the 50s and 60s, while dry conditions are expected to continue into the following week.
Should snowfall occur during this winter weather event, it would mark the third snowstorm in 2025 for the Midlands region. This follows earlier winter storms in January that brought significant snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Notably, nearly an inch of snow was recorded at Columbia Metropolitan Airport during these storms, with the last occurrence of snow on the ground in Columbia dating back to January 2022.
In response to the forecasted winter weather, various measures have been put in place for snow management in Columbia. A total of 691 out of the city’s 1,450 lane miles are designated as priority routes for snow removal and maintenance by Columbia Public Works. Residents can also sign up for winter weather alerts through Smart 911 to stay informed about local conditions.
As the Columbia area prepares for this potential winter weather event, local authorities and citizens alike are advised to stay updated on any developments that may impact road conditions and safety. Precautionary measures such as planning for travel delays and being aware of possible icy conditions will be essential during this forecasted wintry week in South Carolina.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Columbia Tribune: National Weather Service Snow Forecast
- Wikipedia: Winter Weather
- Columbia Missourian: Winter Weather Updates
- Google Search: Winter Weather Columbia SC
- KRCG: Winter Weather Update and Cancelations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Weather
- KOMU: Columbia Snowplow Crews Prepare
- Google News: Columbia MO Weather News
