Columbia, South Carolina – A dangerous ice storm is expected to impact the Midlands this weekend, prompting an Ice Storm Warning for much of central South Carolina and raising concerns about hazardous travel and power outages.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, ice accumulations greater than 0.25 inches are likely in warned areas, with freezing rain developing Saturday night and continuing into Sunday. Counties along and north of Interstate 20, including the Columbia metro area, face the highest risk for significant icing. Areas south of I-20 remain under a Winter Weather Advisory, where lighter ice amounts of one-tenth to two-tenths of an inch are expected.
Forecasters warn that ice buildup will lead to dangerous or potentially impossible travel, especially on bridges, overpasses, and untreated roads. Ice accumulation on trees and power lines may result in scattered to widespread power outages, with some outages possibly lasting into Monday.
The warning is in effect from 1 p.m. Saturday through 1 p.m. Monday, with the most severe conditions expected late Saturday night into Sunday morning.
Residents are urged to complete preparations now, avoid travel during peak icing, and have emergency supplies ready in case of extended outages.
