State Braces for Potentially Severe Winter Weather

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO) —  As severe winter weather makes it way across the east coast, the National Weather Service issued a Freezing Rain Advisory for Newberry, Fairfield, Kershaw, Darlington, Marlboro, Florence, Dillon, Marion, Horry and Lee counties.

Be advised that the alerts are in effect from midnight Friday through 7 p.m. Saturday.

Threat for freezing rain w/ significant impacts exists in north Midlands late tonight-Fri. Be prepared. #winterstorm pic.twitter.com/SXdiqaxo4D

— NWS Columbia (@NWSColumbia) January 21, 2016

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division asks residents to prepare themselves and their homes for possible winter weather. Residents should prepare for the possibility of power outages, problems with pipes that are not fully insulated or at risk to burst and very dangerous driving conditions. Be alert to changing weather conditions. Once ice begins to accumulate on bridges, overpasses and secondary streets, travel may become treacherous.  If you are on the roadway, drive slowly and watch for black ice. The plan should include a winter weather kit that can be easily put together and should include the following items: Flashlights and extra batteries Battery-powered NOAA weather radio and a portable AM/FM radio Extra food and water, such as non-perishable/high-energy foods and snacks       Extra medication  Extra baby items, especially if you have infants or small children         Basic First-Aid supplies     Blankets, sleeping bags and extra clothing for warmth        Charge all cell phones ahead of time Gather and store extra firewood in a dry sheltered area   Meteorologist’s John Farley and Jonathan Kennedy are monitoring the local weather conditions.

Winter weather expected this evening through Saturday! Practice safety when heating your home. More info/tips here: https://t.co/omlfVTSDOX

— Red Cross SC (@RedCrossSC) January 21, 2016