Columbia, South Carolina – Hazardous travel conditions persist across central South Carolina Sunday morning as freezing overnight temperatures caused ice to form on untreated roadways.
According to the National Weather Service in Columbia, very cold temperatures overnight led to widespread icing, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads. Officials say travel is not advised this morning, but drivers who must be on the road should take additional precautions.
The most affected routes include Interstate 26, Interstate 20, Interstate 77, and major state highways such as U.S. 378, where slick conditions may not be immediately visible. Roads may appear wet while actually being ice-covered, increasing the risk of crashes.
The National Weather Service urges motorists to clean all snow and ice from vehicles before driving, as blowing snow can reduce visibility and contribute to accidents. Drivers are also advised to reduce speeds, avoid cruise control, and leave extra distance between vehicles, especially near snowplows or road treatment crews.
National data show winter weather-related crashes contribute to more than 1,000 deaths and 100,000 injuries each year, highlighting the importance of cautious driving during icy conditions.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve later today as temperatures rise above freezing and sunshine returns, allowing ice to melt. Until then, residents are encouraged to delay travel if possible and remain indoors during the most hazardous morning hours.
These conditions may especially affect morning commuters, healthcare workers, delivery drivers, and students traveling early across the Midlands.
Officials recommend monitoring updates from the National Weather Service and local transportation agencies before heading out.
