President Donald Trump has officially approved a federal emergency disaster declaration for South Carolina as a potentially catastrophic winter storm system begins to move through the state. The approval follows a formal request from Governor Henry McMaster, who warned of historic ice accumulations and extreme cold that could impact all 46 counties.
The declaration authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide Public Assistance Category B, which covers emergency protective measures. This includes reimbursement for state and local response costs, non-congregate sheltering, and direct federal assistance—allowing federal personnel and equipment to be deployed immediately to support local crews.
Severe Impacts Forecasted Across the State
The National Weather Service has issued ice storm warnings for the Upstate and large portions of the Midlands. Meteorologists are predicting a dangerous mix of freezing rain and sleet starting tonight, January 24, and continuing through Monday morning.
In the Upstate, forecasters anticipate extreme impacts due to sub-zero temperatures and heavy ice accumulation. The combination of ice and gusty winds is expected to snap tree limbs and down power lines, with utility companies warning that resulting outages could last for several days in some areas.
Essential Safety Guidelines for Residents
State officials are urging all South Carolinians to prioritize safety and avoid unnecessary travel as road conditions deteriorate.
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Emergency Kits: Ensure your household has enough non-perishable food, water, and essential medications to last at least three days. Kits should also include flashlights, fresh batteries, and a first-aid kit.
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Driving Risks: If travel is unavoidable, be vigilant for black ice, standing water, and debris. Bridges and overpasses are expected to freeze first.
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Neighbor and Pet Safety: Residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors or those with special needs. All pets should be brought indoors or provided with warm, dry shelter.
Infrastructure and Debris Management
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has mobilized to coordinate emergency debris drop-off sites should the ice cause widespread damage to trees and infrastructure.
Additionally, residents with private wells are advised to fill bathtubs or large containers with water before power is lost to ensure they can manually flush toilets. While most septic systems function during outages, those with electrical components should be used sparingly until power is restored.
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