Winter Weather Advisory Hits the Carolinas

News Summary

A winter weather advisory has been issued for several counties in the Carolinas as ice and freezing rain are expected to create hazardous road conditions. The advisory begins Wednesday afternoon and continues through Thursday morning. Local residents should prepare for potential icy conditions, especially in the Border Belt counties. Additional weather concerns include isolated power outages and possible school closures. Stay informed and drive safely during this winter storm.

Winter Weather Advisory Hits the Carolinas

In Marlboro and neighboring counties, winter weather is knocking on the door, bringing with it ice and freezing rain that could create a slippery scene across the region. The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory that is set to take effect from this Wednesday afternoon and remain in place through Thursday morning. If you’re in Scotland, Robeson, Columbus, Dillon, Darlington, Florence, Marion, or Lee counties, you might want to grab your warmest scarf and take it easy on the roads!

What’s Coming Our Way?

Starting Wednesday morning and lasting into Thursday, the Carolinas will feel the impact of a winter storm that promises a mix of sneaky precipitation. As we break it down:

• Wednesday Morning: Most of the day will remain dry until we hit the afternoon, when we can expect spotty rain and possibly some sleet, especially in the Border Belt counties.
• Wednesday Afternoon: Expect areas of cold rain to settle in, with the fun starting after 4 or 5 p.m. as some freezing rain creeps into the Border Belt.
• Wednesday Night: From 6 p.m. to midnight, be prepared for spotty freezing rain mainly inland, while the Grand Strand area will mostly see cold rain.

Thursday’s Forecast: A Little Chill

As we move into Thursday, it seems the precipitation will be making its exit, but not without a little drama:

• Early Thursday Morning: From midnight to 2 a.m., expect the precipitation to move out, though colder air moving in could bring some sleet or even a few snow flurries before it all ends.
• Morning Overcast: From 6 a.m. to 12 p.m., keep an eye out for overcast conditions with the possibility of flurries, providing a chill to the start of your day.

How Much Ice Are We Talking?

If you’re specifically in an area north of a line stretching from Lumberton to Bennettsville, brace yourself; that’s where the risk of ice accumulation is the highest. We’re looking at potential ice accumulations around 0.10 inches, and in some lucky spots, it could even reach up to 0.25 inches. This could lead to slick spots on roads, bridges, and overpasses — so drive carefully!

Power Outages and Other Risks

The good news? The likelihood of significant power outages remains low. While isolated outages can pop up here and there, they’re considered unlikely overall. However, don’t let your guard down entirely; a thin glaze of ice could form on trees and create some slick spots, especially south of the icy border we discussed.

School Closures and Preparing for Travel

With all this winter weather on the horizon, many schools have already announced closures or delays in honor of safety first. Parents and guardians should keep their ears to the ground for updates on school schedules. If you plan on traveling, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready and leave with plenty of time, as conditions may be tricky.

Wrap-Up

As we gear up for this winter weather, let’s remember to stay safe and smart. With something as tricky as freezing rain heading our way, it doesn’t hurt to prepare early. Dress warmly, drive carefully, and keep an eye on the forecast as the storm rolls through! Stay cozy out there as we navigate this chilly challenge together!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

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Winter Storm Warning for Florence Area: Snow and Sleet on the Way
Winter Storm Watch Affects Grand Strand Region
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South Carolina Braces for Colder Weather After Record Heat
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Additional Resources

• WPDE: Winter Storm to Bring Rain, Ice to the Area
• Google Search: Winter Weather Advisory Carolinas
• WMBF News: First Alert Weather Day
• Wikipedia: Winter Storm
• WPDE: Marlboro County School District Recruitment Fair
• Google News: Winter Weather School Closures