Winter Storm Warning for Florence Area: Snow and Sleet on the Way

A snowy view of Florence as winter storm approaches.

News Summary

Residents of Florence are preparing for a winter storm as a warning has been issued for snow and sleet starting tonight. The storm is expected to impact multiple counties in the Pee Dee and Grand Strand areas. Accumulations of 3-6 inches of snow are forecasted for some regions, while others might see lighter snowfall. Road conditions may become hazardous, leading emergency services to advise against unnecessary travel. Schools are switching to e-learning for January 22 as safety precautions are being implemented across the area.

Winter Storm Warning Hits Florence Area: Snow and Sleet Expected Tonight!

Florence residents, brace yourselves! A winter storm warning has just been issued for the Pee Dee and Grand Strand areas, and it’s going to affect quite a large region until 8 a.m. on Wednesday. Areas like Horry, Georgetown, Columbus, Florence, Darlington, Robeson, Dillon, Marion, Marlboro, Scotland, Lee, Sumter, Clarendon, and Williamsburg Counties are all in for a chilly surprise!

What’s Happening Tonight?

Starting this evening, snow and sleet will be making their way to the Florence area. The fun is set to kick off at around 8 p.m. on Tuesday and continue through early Wednesday morning, wrapping up around 3 a.m. In Myrtle Beach, the snow and sleet show will follow a similar timeline, lasting until 6 a.m. on Wednesday.

How Much Snow Are We Expecting?

If you’re curious about the snow totals, here’s what the forecasts are suggesting: Horry and Georgetown Counties can expect to see around 3-6 inches of snow, while those further west may experience a lighter dusting of about 1-4 inches. So, whether you’re dreaming of a winter wonderland or just hoping it won’t wreak havoc on your plans, it’s important to keep an eye on these predictions.

Keep Safe on the Roads

Road conditions are likely to turn hazardous, especially through Wednesday morning. With temperatures expected to dip down to around 21 degrees this evening and dropping even further to 15 degrees by Wednesday evening, the cold ground will lead to quick accumulation of snow and sleet on the roads. This creates a formula for slippery streets, so it’s best to avoid unnecessary travel for your safety.

Stay Warm and Prepared

With cold weather swinging in, it’s essential for everyone to take some precautions. Make sure your heating systems are operational, and don’t forget to leave those faucets dripping to prevent any freezing pipes! The Florence County Emergency Management team is on top of things, constantly monitoring the situation, and they highly advise staying off the roads unless necessary.

School Closures and Remote Learning

In light of the incoming weather, several school districts have decided to cancel afterschool activities and switch to e-learning for January 22. Horry County Schools, Georgetown County School District, and others are all part of this change. Even local colleges like Coastal Carolina University, Francis Marion University, and Horry-Georgetown Technical College have announced plans to transition their classes to remote learning for the day.

Cold Weather Tips

As we hunker down for a cold night, keep in mind some winter weather advice: check in on your pets, make sure your plants are covered, and keep an eye on the elderly in the community. We want everyone to stay safe and warm, especially during such freezing conditions!

The Show Must Go On!

As snow continues to fall overnight, meteorologists predict that it will start to taper off early Wednesday morning. Currently, there are no significant changes expected in the weather forecast as the situation develops, so be ready and enjoy the wintery scenery while keeping safe!

So Florence, grab your hot cocoa, settle in for the evening, and let’s hope this winter storm brings some joy and magic without too much hassle!