Weather
South Carolina Winter 2026/27 Safety: Frostbite vs. Hypothermia Explained
Charleston, SC – As South Carolina moves closer to winter, residents across Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach and communities throughout the Palmetto State are being reminded of two poten
By Rachel Monroe · 2026-11-04T16:41:22.181Z
Charleston, SC – As South Carolina moves closer to winter, residents across Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach and communities throughout the Palmetto State are being reminded of two potentially life threatening cold weather conditions: frostbite and hypothermia. Although both result from exposure to cold, they affect the body differently and can become serious medical emergencies.
According to the National Weather Service, dressing in layers, covering exposed skin and limiting time outdoors can help prevent cold related injuries. Wind, moisture and prolonged exposure increase the risk, especially for people working outdoors, traveling or spending extended periods in colder conditions.
Frostbite vs. Hypothermia: What's the Difference?
Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, most commonly affecting fingers, toes, ears, noses and other exposed areas.
Early warning signs include numbness, tingling, unusual skin discoloration and skin that feels hard or waxy. Severe cases can cause permanent tissue damage.
Hypothermia, meanwhile, develops when the body's core temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech, extreme fatigue and poor coordination. In severe cases, shivering may stop as the condition becomes life threatening.
What Should South Carolina Residents Do?
Anyone showing signs of hypothermia needs immediate medical attention. Call 911, move the person indoors, remove wet clothing and wrap them in dry blankets while awaiting emergency assistance.
For suspected frostbite, avoid rubbing affected skin or applying direct heat. Seek medical attention promptly.
The National Weather Service also encourages residents to protect pets, insulate exposed pipes, prepare for possible power outages and check on older adults and vulnerable neighbors.
South Carolina's Upstate mountains, inland communities and coastal regions experience different winter conditions. Even in relatively mild coastal areas, cold winds, rain and wet clothing can accelerate heat loss and increase hypothermia risks.
The critical difference: Frostbite freezes and damages body tissue, while hypothermia dangerously lowers the body's internal temperature. Both conditions can occur simultaneously.