News Summary
The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the Pee Dee Region, effective Wednesday afternoon to Thursday morning. Ice accumulation from freezing rain is expected, particularly in northern areas, leading to slippery roads and minor travel impacts. Local schools, including Dillon Christian School and Robeson County Community College, will operate virtually to ensure safety. Despite the icy conditions, significant power disruptions are not anticipated. Residents are advised to prepare and stay updated on local weather reports.
Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Pee Dee Region
As residents of the Pee Dee Region gear up for a chilly week ahead, the National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory that will be effective from Wednesday afternoon, February 19 until Thursday morning, February 20. The advisory covers several counties including Marlboro, Scotland, Robeson, Columbus, Dillon, Darlington, Florence, Marion, Lee, and parts of Horry County.
Weather enthusiasts and local residents alike should prepare for some freezing rain that is likely to lead to ice accumulation during this advisory period. While snow isn’t in the forecast, the icy conditions could still make things a little slippery. Specifically, an accumulation of 0.10″ to 0.25″ of ice is expected, particularly in northern areas from Lumberton to Bennettsville, which have the highest chances for significant ice accumulation.
Residents in light pink and dark pink shaded areas on the advisory map can expect some minor impacts due to the icing conditions. It’s not the first time residents have encountered troublesome weather, as many reported damage from severe storms just the previous Sunday. Winds caused fallen trees that damaged fences and even storage buildings, leaving around 1,200 homes in Scotland and Robeson County without power.
What to Expect in the Coming Days
The weather is set to bring spotty rain beginning on Wednesday morning, gradually turning into more widespread rain closer to lunchtime. As temperatures dip, there could also be sleet mixing in with the rain. The freezing rain is expected to mainly hit inland areas on Wednesday evening, while places like the Grand Strand can anticipate cold rain instead.
Precipitation should begin clearing out by around 2 a.m. on Thursday, though don’t be surprised if you see some sleet or even snowflakes before it wraps up. As we head into Thursday morning, expect an overcast and cold day with no precipitation on the horizon.
Travel Precautions and School Closures
The advisory brings with it some caution for travel, especially overnight. Areas east of the shaded line may experience a thin layer of ice on trees and slick spots on roadways, particularly on elevated surfaces and overpasses. Travel isn’t recommended overnight and into Thursday morning due to the potential for slippery roads. Thankfully, temperatures are expected to rise above freezing by Saturday, providing much-needed relief.
For families and students, the weather has already impacted local schools. Dillon Christian School and Robeson County Community College will operate on a virtual schedule, ensuring everyone remains safe from potential hazards posed by the icy weather. While travel issues are not anticipated along the Grand Strand, the situation remains a bit dicey elsewhere.
Although there are concerns about road conditions and the potential for isolated power outages, the overall forecast suggests that serious power disruptions are unlikely. It’s merely a waiting game as residents prepare for the cold and icy conditions this week. Stay warm, stay safe, and be sure to check in with local reports for the latest updates!
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Additional Resources
- WPDE Weather Blog
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
- WPDE School Closures
- Google Search: Winter Weather South Carolina
- WMBF News Weather Update
- Google Scholar: Winter Weather Impact
- Patch Weather Advisory
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Weather
- Community Advocate Weather Impact
- Google News: Winter School Closures
