Winter Weather Alert: Freezing Rain Heads for the Grand Strand

News Summary

Residents in Myrtle Beach and nearby areas are preparing for a Winter Weather Advisory due to freezing rain expected from January 10 to 11. The National Weather Service warns of treacherous road conditions particularly on bridges and overpasses. Areas affected primarily include parts of southeast North Carolina and northeast South Carolina. While some snowfall is possible, communities closer to the Grand Strand are expected to avoid accumulation. Travel is discouraged during the weather event to ensure safety.

Winter Weather Alert: Freezing Rain Heads for the Grand Strand

As folks in Myrtle Beach prepare for the weekend, a Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for several counties in South Carolina. The National Weather Service is predicting a chilly Friday evening with the potential for some freezing rain to sweep through the area. While the most intense weather is likely to stay away from the popular beach town, local residents should still be on alert.

What to Expect This Evening

Starting at 4 p.m. on January 10, residents in parts of southeast North Carolina and northeast South Carolina can expect a mix of light wintry precipitation. This advisory will remain in effect until 7 a.m. on January 11, covering areas such as Marlboro, Darlington, Dillon, Florence, Marion, Williamsburg, and northern Horry County.

Those planning to hit the road for their Friday evening commute are advised to exercise caution as freezing rain could create treacherous conditions. Bridges and overpasses, which tend to freeze quicker than regular roads, can become particularly hazardous.

Which Areas Are Most Affected?

Specific communities under this advisory include Burgaw, Whiteville, Darlington, North Hartsville, and more. Residents in these areas should prepare for ice accumulation of around 0.03 inches to 0.07 inches overnight on January 10. Luckily for those in eastern Horry County and Georgetown County, temperatures are expected to hover above freezing, potentially sparing them from the worst impacts.

Snowy Possibilities Ahead

While there may be some snowfall in various parts of the state between January 10-13, those in the Grand Strand should not expect any accumulation. The nearest community likely to see some snow this weekend is Marlboro County, which is a bit up the road.

Ready for Winter Challenges

Given the incoming wintry mix, state transportation officials are not taking any chances. Crews from the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) are in the process of pre-treating roads and keeping a close eye on the latest forecasts. Local leaders are strongly advising everyone to avoid unnecessary travel during the expected winter storm. But if you’re absolutely required to go out, it’s essential to proceed with caution.

Stay Safe Out There!

It’s worth noting that on average, weather-related vehicle crashes result in over 6,000 deaths and nearly 480,000 injuries each year in the U.S. Given the chance of icy roads, it’s crucial to drive cautiously and assume there’s ice present when temperatures are around freezing.

In anticipation of the weather, Horry-Georgetown Technical College has already closed its campus, opting for a noon shut down on Friday. It’s a good reminder for everyone to check local updates and plan accordingly.

In Conclusion

As we gear up for this chilly weather, it’s essential to stay informed and take precautions. Bundle up, keep an eye on road conditions, and remember that the best way to ensure safety is to stay off the road whenever possible. Here’s hoping everyone stays safe and warm as we navigate through this winter weather!