SC Winter Weather Preparedness Week

Columbia, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster has proclaimed November 30 through December 6, 2025, as Winter Weather Preparedness Week in South Carolina.

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division, the National Weather Service and members of the State Emergency Response Team are urging all South Carolinians to take steps now to prepare for hazardous winter weather by reviewing emergency plans and checking supplies.

While winters in South Carolina are typically mild, winter weather events such as snow, ice storms and extreme cold can impact the entire state. These conditions can lead to closed highways, blocked roads, black ice, downed power lines, and an increased risk of hypothermia. Coastal and inland areas may also face flood risks from winter storms.

Residents should take the proper winter weather precautions now during milder temperatures while the winter emergency supplies are in low demand:

• Add winter supplies, like shovels and rock salt, to your emergency kit.
• Prepare for possible isolation in your home by having sufficient heating fuel; regular fuel sources may be cut off.
• Insulate pipes with insulation or newspapers and plastic and let faucets drip slightly in cold weather to prevent freezing.
• Know how to shut off water valves in case of a burst pipe.
• Use portable generators carefully during outages; follow the manufacturer’s instructions to avoid deadly carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Ensure your fireplace has a sturdy screen to contain sparks. Cool ashes before placing them in a metal container, kept at a safe distance from your home.
• Have chimneys inspected and cleaned yearly by a professional to prevent creosote buildup, which is highly flammable.
• Have your vehicle serviced to ensure it is prepared for the winter season.
• Equip every vehicle with a winter emergency kit, including a shovel, windshield scraper, flashlight, battery-powered radio, water, snacks, matches, extra hats, socks, mittens, a first aid kit, medications, blankets, road salt, booster cables, emergency flares, and a fluorescent distress flag.

Download the Winter Weather Guide and the SC Emergency Manager mobile app.

SCEMD, the National Weather Service and members of the State Emergency Response Team have released an updated Winter Weather Guide to help South Carolinians prepare ahead of the upcoming winter season.

The SC Emergency Manager app is designed to help residents create emergency plans, manage supplies, locate open emergency shelters, and stay connected with loved ones. The app also features a flashlight, locator whistle, and damage reporting tool. The app is free on the Apple App Store and Google Play.