Charleston, S.C. — Patchy freezing fog created slick travel conditions across parts of the South Carolina Lowcountry early Friday, raising concerns for motorists along I-26, U.S. 17, and U.S. 52 during the morning commute.
The National Weather Service in Charleston said the greatest risk for minor icing developed inland from the coast, where temperatures dipped to freezing while dense fog settled across the region. Freezing fog deposits a thin glaze of ice on colder surfaces, including bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads.
The most vulnerable areas include stretches of I-26 from Summerville toward Moncks Corner, U.S. 17 near Walterboro, and U.S. 52 north of Charleston. Even where pavement appears merely damp, isolated icy patches may form quickly, especially on elevated roadways and shaded areas.
Communities most affected include Charleston, Summerville, Moncks Corner, Walterboro, Allendale, Beaufort, and surrounding rural areas. Patchy impacts are also possible farther south toward the Savannah River corridor, where temperatures hover near the freezing mark.
Visibility fluctuates as fog thickens and thins, complicating travel conditions. Drivers may encounter sudden slick spots with little warning, particularly before sunrise. Officials emphasized that bridges ice over first and remain hazardous even after surrounding roads improve.
The South Carolina Department of Transportation urged drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and use caution on ramps and overpasses. Pedestrians were also advised to watch for icy sidewalks and parking lots.
Conditions gradually improve later Friday morning as temperatures rise above freezing and fog dissipates. The freezing fog threat diminishes by mid to late morning, though isolated slick spots may linger briefly on elevated surfaces.
No additional winter precipitation is expected later Friday, allowing road conditions to steadily improve heading into the afternoon. Motorists are encouraged to remain alert during the early commute, when freezing fog presents the highest risk across the Lowcountry.
