We’re in the dog days of winter here in the Lowcountry and haven’t seen a single snowflake in Beaufort…yet. But, be prepared. Looking at the news and seeing cold temperatures moving in starting tonight while seeing the white stuff falling “up north”, one can never be safe.
Heavy snowfall and extreme cold can immobilize an entire region. Even areas that normally experience mild winters can be hit with a major snowstorm or extreme cold.
We sure do know all about that here in Beaufort. Look at the snowfall of two years ago, on January 3rd, 2018. We got some six inches of snow and the Lowcountry froze over and most parts of it came to a standstill for four or five days.
Snow and ice storms, coupled with cold temperatures, periodically threaten South Carolina. All it takes is a few factors to line up. It needs to rain, and it needs to be when the temperature is below 32 degrees.
Pretty simple.
Winter storms can damage property, create safety risks, destroy crops and valuable timber, damage infrastructure components such as power lines and have enormous economic impacts…and they can sure be one heck of an inconvenience.
We don’t have salt trucks and snow plows here in town. Most natives don’t even know how to safely navigate their vehicles on snow covered roads.
Lots have never even experienced it.
During the winter months in the Lowcountry, it helps to stay aware, because winter weather isn’t a joke around these parts. And, you just never know when it’ll be headed our way. After all, nobody expected what happened 2 years ago.
First, know the terms. That helps.
Winter Storm Watch: A winter storm is possible in your area. Tune in to your NOAA Weather Radio, commercial radio or television for more information.
Winter Storm Warning: A winter storm is occurring or will soon occur in your area.
Freezing Rain: Rain that freezes when it hits the ground, creating a coating of ice on roads, walkways, trees and power lines.
Sleet: Rain that turns to ice pellets before reaching the ground. Sleet also causes moisture on roads to freeze and become slippery.
Frost/Freeze Warning: Below freezing temperatures are expected.
Sure the snow is pretty and, for some, lots of fun but it can cause lots of problems if you aren’t prepared.
Learn to prepare
Some advice officials offer is to have a snow emergency kit in your home or vehicle, stock up on food, candles and batteries and only driving on the streets when absolutely necessary.
In other words….treat it like a hurricane were on its way.
Yeah. Now you get it.
Visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division online for tips on what to do if a winter storm is coming our way.
