News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties, starting Tuesday evening and lasting until noon on Wednesday. Residents can expect frigid temperatures, heavy snow, and potential sleet accumulations of up to two inches. As road conditions become hazardous, commuters are urged to prepare and stay safe, while emergency shelters are made available to those in need.
Beaufort, SC – The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a winter storm warning for Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties, with severe weather conditions expected to impact the area starting Tuesday evening.
The warning will take effect at 5 p.m. on Tuesday and last until noon on Wednesday, bringing frigid temperatures alongside the possibility of heavy snow and mixed precipitation. Forecasts indicate that total snow and sleet accumulations may reach up to two inches.
As a result of the impending storm, roads, bridges, and overpasses are anticipated to become slick and hazardous, which is likely to affect both the Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning commutes. Residents are warned to take precautions, especially those living in lower South Carolina coastal counties, where there is an enhanced risk for sleet, particularly inland of US 17.
The NWS advises residents to ensure that their vehicles are equipped with extra supplies, such as flashlights, food, and water, in case of emergencies. Additionally, residents should remain indoors until conditions improve. If it is necessary to go outside, it is crucial to dress in layers to minimize the risk of frostbite.
Cold Weather Advisory
A separate cold weather advisory is also in effect, predicting wind chills as low as 10 to 20 degrees on Monday night and between 10 to 15 degrees above zero on Tuesday night. Daytime highs are not expected to climb much, with temperatures reaching only the upper 30s to around 40 degrees on Tuesday and mid to upper 30s on Wednesday.
Preparedness Measures
In anticipation of the winter weather, the South Carolina Emergency Preparedness Division has released a winter weather preparedness guide. It suggests residents keep at least three days’ worth of non-perishable food and water stored, ensure they have adequate warm clothing, and verify that their first aid kits are updated and well-stocked.
Due to the weather forecast, several schools and government offices are either closing or adjusting their hours. Jasper County Government offices will close early at 1 p.m. on Tuesday, with a decision on Wednesday’s operations to be determined later. Schools in Jasper County, including Royal Live Oaks Academy and Thomas Heyward Academy, will implement e-learning days for both Tuesday and Wednesday.
Emergency Shelters and Health Services
To support those without adequate heat, emergency warming shelters will open, including locations at Kingdom Touch Ministries and Agape Life Center. Both shelters are welcoming volunteers and donations to help provide assistance. Moreover, two cold weather shelters will be available in Beaufort County at Sea Island Presbyterian Church and Christ Lutheran Church, where meals will be offered and service animals permitted.
Beaufort Memorial Hospital is preparing for the storm as well; while it will remain open, the hospital will suspend visiting hours from 5 p.m. on Tuesday until noon on Wednesday, with entry limited to the emergency room only. However, patients can still access the hospital’s telehealth service, which is available 24/7.
Residents of Beaufort, Jasper, and Hampton counties are encouraged to stay informed about the weather conditions and take all necessary precautions to ensure their safety during the expected winter storm.
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Additional Resources
- WJCL: Hilton Head Island Middle School
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
- Island Packet: Weather News
- Google Search: Winter Weather Preparedness
- WSAV: Hilton Head Island Teacher Lawsuit
- Google Scholar: Winter Storm Effects
- Island Packet: Local News Article
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Storm
- Bluffton Today: Lowcountry Winter Storm Warnings
- Google News: Beaufort Weather Alert
