Charleston, South Carolina – The potential is increasing for a significant winter storm to impact parts of the Carolinas this weekend, as very cold air remains locked across the eastern United States.
According to the NOAA Weather Prediction Center, there is a chance of at least moderate winter storm impacts from Friday night through Monday evening, including hazardous travel and possible disruptions. Forecast confidence is growing that a strong storm system could develop, but exact impacts are still uncertain.
Forecasters say very cold temperatures will persist across North and South Carolina into next week, setting the stage for winter weather if sufficient moisture moves into the region. A disturbance diving south from Canada later this week is expected to strengthen into a surface low-pressure system by Saturday, interacting with the cold air mass.
The Weather Prediction Center notes that this interaction could result in widespread precipitation, though it is still unclear where the heaviest impacts will occur or whether precipitation will fall as snow, a wintry mix, or rain—particularly along the coast and inland Lowcountry.
The National Weather Service in Charleston reports a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect for much of the South Carolina Lowcountry and Southeast Georgia, with cold conditions expected to continue through the week. Officials say another winter system this weekend is possible, adding to ongoing cold weather concerns.
Uncertainty remains regarding the track, strength, and timing of the storm, which will ultimately determine snowfall amounts, travel impacts, and potential infrastructure disruptions.
Residents across the Carolinas—especially commuters, travelers, and weekend workers—are urged to monitor forecasts closely through the week and prepare for possible changes in travel conditions.
