Columbia, South Carolina – A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect across much of central South Carolina and east-central Georgia as heavy snow is expected to create hazardous travel conditions through Sunday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, 6 to 9 inches of snow are forecast across portions of north-central South Carolina, including the Columbia metro area, from 10 p.m. Friday through 10 a.m. EST Sunday. Wind gusts up to 35 mph may accompany the storm, worsening travel conditions.
Counties under the higher snowfall warning include Richland, Lexington, Newberry, Fairfield, Kershaw, Chesterfield, Lee, Sumter, Calhoun, Clarendon, and Lancaster. Cities impacted include Columbia, West Columbia, Cayce, Lexington, Camden, Winnsboro, Sumter, Manning, Newberry, and Lancaster.
Farther southwest, a Winter Storm Warning is also in effect for east-central Georgia and south-central South Carolina, where 3 to 6 inches of snow are expected. This includes parts of Augusta, North Augusta, Aiken, Barnwell, Bamberg, Edgefield, McCormick, and surrounding areas in Georgia and South Carolina.
Forecasters warn that travel could become very difficult, particularly overnight and into Saturday as snowfall intensifies. Snow-covered roads, slick bridges, and untreated surfaces are expected, especially in areas with limited winter weather infrastructure.
The National Weather Service urges residents to delay travel if possible. Motorists who must travel should carry emergency supplies, including food, water, and a flashlight, and check current road conditions by calling 511.
Snowfall of this magnitude is uncommon across the Midlands and east Georgia and may overwhelm road treatment efforts. Conditions are expected to gradually improve late Sunday morning, though lingering slick spots may persist beyond the end of the warning.
Residents should continue monitoring official updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency management agencies as the storm develops.
