News Summary
Berkeley and Dorchester Counties in South Carolina are preparing for an unusual winter storm, advising residents to limit travel and ensure their homes and pets are safe. Emergency management officials emphasize the need for calm among residents and recommend purchasing only necessary supplies. New warming centers will offer shelter and support for those in need as the situation is continually assessed. Community cooperation and animal welfare are highlighted during this severe weather event.
Berkeley and Dorchester Counties are bracing for an unusual winter weather event, prompting emergency responders to advise residents against driving unless absolutely necessary. Both counties are collaborating with the South Carolina Department of Transportation to prepare the roads with salt and sand; however, they do not possess snow plows typically used for heavier snow removal.
William Rochester, the Emergency Management Director for Berkeley County, acknowledged that winter storms of this nature occur in the region only every four to five years. He emphasized the critical importance of limiting travel during this time and reserving 911 calls solely for genuine emergencies. Similarly, Thomas McNeal, the Director of Emergency Management for Dorchester County, noted that extended cold temperatures in the South can lead to prolonged snow events, further complicating travel and safety.
In anticipation of the storm, residents are encouraged to remain calm and avoid panic buying at local stores. Rochester advised people to purchase only what they need and focus on acquiring shelf-stable and non-perishable items. A list of safety tips has also been circulated, which includes methods for heating homes safely, exercising caution when using space heaters, and preventing pipes from freezing by letting faucets drip.
Community engagement is being promoted, with requests for residents to check on their neighbors, particularly the elderly or those with special needs. McNeal suggested that individuals with plenty of resources might consider sharing with others who may be less prepared.
Animal welfare has not been overlooked, with McNeal reminding residents that if they are feeling cold, their pets likely are too. It’s crucial for pet owners to ensure their animals are sheltered and taken care of during the severe weather conditions.
For those in need of warmth, several warming centers are being established throughout the two counties. In Dorchester County, the Seacoast Church Warming Center located in Summerville will function from Monday through Thursday nights, welcoming visitors from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. In Berkeley County, Holy City Missions at Aldersgate Methodist Church will offer similar services on Monday and Tuesday nights during the same hours. Both warming centers will extend their hospitality with meals, showers, and safe lodging for attendees.
As the situation develops, emergency management officials plan to continually assess the weather conditions and determine if additional warming centers will be required to accommodate those affected by the winter weather.
Officials urge all residents of Berkeley and Dorchester Counties to stay updated on the weather situation and to follow safety recommendations to ensure their well-being and the safety of their families and communities during this unusual winter event.
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4: Berkeley and Dorchester Counties Urge Residents to Stay Off Roads
- Live 5 News: Multiple Lowcountry Counties Under Thunderstorm Warning
- Live 5 News: Berkeley County Coroner Buried 2 Unidentified Victims
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Storm
- Live 5 News: Residents Express Concern Over Extended Bridge Closure
- Google News: Berkeley and Dorchester Counties Weather
