Icy Roads to Remain after departing storm

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) — After three days of precipitation from the winter storm, freezing rain, snow, and sleet have left the Palmetto State, but lingering issues will cause headaches for the Friday morning commute. The Winter Storm Warning that began Tuesday night expired on Thursday at Noon. Even right past the noon hour, some Midlands residents were seeing sleet and snow as the last wave of wrap-around moisture lifted to the north and east and departed the state. Throughout the afternoon, as temperatures move into the upper-30s, there will be active melting taking place across the Midlands. However, because of the limited window of opportunity, and with the large amount of ice that needs to be melted and evaporated, roadways will still be wet by nightfall. This causes concern for drivers as temperatures are expected to plunge into the mid-20s. This will cause any moisture on the roadways to refreeze, particularly in areas where roads have not been treated. The National Weather Service urges motorists to avoid driving through Friday morning. During the day Friday, temperatures should remain above freezing, allowing most of the ice to completely melt away, and with sunshine, there should be enough drying of the water to avoid any issues for Friday night.