News Summary
Beaufort County is witnessing gradual improvement in road conditions following a recent snowstorm, while officials warn of persistent black ice hazards. Snow plow crews have completed rounds on major highways, but caution is advised as hidden ice remains a risk. Residents are urged to avoid nonessential travel. Hilton Head Island’s U.S. 278 is clear, but secondary roads are still slippery. The local Sheriff’s Office reminds the public to reserve 911 for emergencies. As temperatures drop, black ice formation is a concern, leading to advisories for safe driving.
Beaufort, SC – Road Conditions Slowly Improve After Snowstorm
After a *winter wonderland* descended on Beaufort County, residents are beginning to see some improvement in road conditions following the recent snowstorm. But before you strap on your snow boots and venture out, take a moment to consider the ongoing challenges that remain on local highways and byways.
Snow Plows at Work
As of Thursday morning, crews working with snow plows have completed their rounds on I-95, but the focus has now shifted to several major highways in both Beaufort and Jasper counties. It’s great news for commuters, but caution is still strongly advised as many roads are still experiencing black ice conditions.
Stay Off the Roads if Possible
Local officials are urging residents to avoid any nonessential travel due to the risk of hidden black ice lurking beneath layers of melting snow. This type of ice is notoriously tricky to spot, which can pose serious risks for drivers. If you unexpectedly find yourself on a slick patch, experts advise easing off the gas and keeping the steering wheel steady to maintain control.
Where Are the Clear Roads?
Good news for those living on Hilton Head Island! Currently, by 3 p.m. Thursday, all lanes of U.S. 278 have been reported clear and operational. Earlier in the day, the left eastbound lane was covered in snow, leaving traffic squeezed into the right lane. Meanwhile, other key areas such as the Bluffton Parkway were still rough, but passing vehicles have managed to carve out paths through the snow.
The bridge connecting Lady’s Island to downtown Beaufort seemed to be mostly clear of snow as well. That’s a relief for those trying to get to work or run errands!
Frosty Conditions Ahead
S.C. 170 has improved a touch, but it’s still expected to freeze over faster than other areas, so drive with caution! The situation is much the same for May River Road, which appears to be slick and unpredictable, with snow plows hard at work around 3:50 p.m. Thursday to spruce things up.
Traffic Updates and Safety Tips
As far as major highways go, I-95 is noted safe for normal travel through Hardeeville, Ridgeland, and Jasper County, which will be a relief for anyone who needs to be out and about. The local Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office is also reminding everyone that calling 911 should be reserved for emergencies only — they’re not the road condition hotline!
Traffic cameras are available to keep an eye on local conditions, but be wary: black ice can be elusive and very difficult to detect.
Looking Ahead
With temperatures expected to drop into the 20s overnight, there’s real concern about more black ice forming on roads, especially on secondary roads like Parris Island Gateway and more local routes. Melting sleet and snow have already caused the occasional road closure, so make sure to stay informed before heading out.
In short, while things are gradually getting better after the snowfall that left Beaufort County with a blanket of 2 to 4 inches, the journey isn’t over yet. Exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel to keep safe until conditions improve even further. Stay warm, stay safe, and hope for clearer skies ahead!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Beaufort County Prepares for Major Snowstorm
Winter Storm Hits the Lowcountry: Essential Updates
Winter Weather Disrupts Daily Life in Beaufort and Jasper Counties
Columbia Braces for Severe Winter Weather
Beaufort County Prepares for a Snowy Onslaught
Historic Snowfall Blankets the Lowcountry
Beaufort County Celebrates Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Beaufort County Experiences Rare Snowfall
Beaufort County Prepares for Major Winter Storm
Winter Storm Warning Hits Beaufort: Prepare for Snow!
Additional Resources
- Island Packet: Beaufort Road Conditions
- Wikipedia: Weather
- Live 5 News: Road Closures
- Google Search: Beaufort road conditions
- AOL: Hazardous Driving Conditions
- Google Scholar: Weather Impact on Driving
- Post and Courier: Snow in Beaufort
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Ice
- Island Packet: Local News Update
- Google News: Winter Storm Savannah
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
