Greenville, South Carolina – A significant winter storm moving across the Upstate today is expected to bring hazardous ice accumulation to Greenville before transitioning to light snowfall through Monday, creating dangerous travel and power outage concerns.
According to the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg, freezing rain and sleet are forecast to intensify through this evening, with storm-total ice accumulations between 0.5 and 0.75 inches expected in the Greenville area by Monday afternoon. Ice buildup at these levels can down tree limbs and power lines, leading to scattered outages and impassable roadways.
Snowfall will be secondary but still impactful. Forecasters project less than 1 inch of snow in Greenville, mainly late tonight into Monday morning, falling on top of ice-covered surfaces. This combination is expected to significantly worsen road conditions, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and untreated secondary roads.
The National Weather Service emphasized that precipitation rates are expected to increase this evening, urging residents to complete preparations as soon as possible. Travel is strongly discouraged once freezing rain becomes established, especially overnight when visibility drops and temperatures remain below freezing.
Emergency managers warn that even minor snowfall amounts can become dangerous when combined with ice. Residents are encouraged to remain indoors, charge devices, and prepare for potential power disruptions.
Those most at risk include older adults, people dependent on medical equipment requiring electricity, and anyone who must travel overnight or early Monday for work. Young workers and students commuting during early morning hours may face the most hazardous conditions.
The storm is expected to gradually taper by Monday afternoon, but lingering ice may persist into Monday night as temperatures remain cold.
Officials urge residents to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and local emergency management as conditions evolve.
