Charleston, S.C. — Freezing fog settled across parts of the South Carolina Lowcountry early Friday, creating slick travel conditions on I-26, U.S. 17, and I-95 as a weather advisory remains in effect until 8 a.m.
The National Weather Service in Charleston said freezing fog is reducing visibility while depositing a thin glaze of ice on colder, elevated surfaces, including bridges, overpasses, and untreated roadways. The hazard is most pronounced during the pre-dawn and early morning commute before temperatures rise above freezing.
Areas impacted include the Charleston metro area and inland stretches of Berkeley, Dorchester, Colleton, and Allendale counties. Drivers along I-26 between Summerville and downtown Charleston, as well as U.S. 17 near Mount Pleasant and Walterboro, may encounter sudden slick spots despite generally dry pavement nearby.
Officials warned that bridges ice over first, particularly along U.S. 52 near Moncks Corner and elevated ramps connecting to I-95 near Point South. Light ice may also form on vehicles, trees, fences, and guardrails where fog droplets freeze on contact.
Communities including Charleston, Summerville, Goose Creek, Moncks Corner, Walterboro, Allendale, and Beaufort sit within the advisory area. Visibility can fluctuate rapidly, dropping without warning as fog thickens near waterways and low-lying areas.
The South Carolina Department of Transportation urged motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking. Pedestrians were also advised to use caution on sidewalks and parking lots.
Conditions gradually improve after sunrise Friday as temperatures climb and fog dissipates. The advisory expires at 8 a.m., though isolated slick spots may linger briefly on shaded bridges and elevated roadways. No additional winter weather is expected later in the day as drier air moves into the region.
