Weather
South Carolina Winter Weather Awareness Week: When Snow Turns Dangerous
Columbia, SC – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for South Carolina residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? The answer may surprise
By Sophie Caldwell · 2026-10-25T17:31:07.871Z
Columbia, SC – Winter Weather Awareness Week begins Sunday, October 25, with an important question for South Carolina residents: What actually makes a winter storm a blizzard? The answer may surprise you, especially because heavy snowfall isn't always required.
According to the National Weather Service NWS , a blizzard occurs when sustained winds or frequent gusts reach at least 35 mph, accompanied by falling or blowing snow that reduces visibility to one quarter mile or less for at least three hours.
Even snow already on the ground can produce blizzard conditions when powerful winds lift it into the air, creating dangerous whiteouts.
What's the Difference Between a Watch and a Warning? A Winter Storm Watch means significant winter weather is possible, giving residents time to prepare.
A Winter Storm Warning means dangerous winter conditions are expected or already occurring.
A Blizzard Warning is issued when blizzard conditions are expected or underway. Travel can quickly become dangerous as blowing snow reduces visibility and roads become difficult to navigate.
What Should South Carolina Residents Have Ready? Before winter storms arrive, households should prepare emergency supplies, including:
Food and water: At least three days of nonperishable food and one gallon of water per person daily. Warmth: Extra blankets, sleeping bags, winter clothing and safe backup heating options. Emergency supplies: Flashlights, batteries, medications, first aid kits and charged power banks. Vehicles: A full tank of gas, blankets, jumper cables, an ice scraper and emergency supplies. Snow removal: Shovels, ice melt, rock salt and traction materials. Never operate generators, outdoor grills or other fuel burning outdoor equipment indoors or inside garages because of deadly carbon monoxide risks.
Why It Matters Across South Carolina From Greenville and Spartanburg in the Upstate to Columbia, Charleston, Myrtle Beach and communities throughout the Midlands and Lowcountry, winter storms can create dangerous conditions across South Carolina.
Although blizzards are extremely rare in the state, higher elevations near the Blue Ridge Mountains can experience snowfall, strong winds and hazardous winter travel conditions.
Freezing rain and ice storms are often more significant winter threats, potentially disrupting travel along Interstate 85, Interstate 26, Interstate 77 and Interstate 95.
Even relatively small amounts of ice can make bridges and overpasses dangerous, while fallen trees and power outages may leave households without electricity or heat.
As Winter Weather Awareness Week continues through Saturday, October 31, residents are encouraged to review emergency plans, check supplies and monitor official NWS forecasts.
Remember: A blizzard is defined by wind, visibility and duration — not snowfall totals.