News Summary
A winter storm has struck the Lowcountry, causing significant disruptions to travel, business operations, and community services. Local officials emphasize road safety, with many advising residents to stay off the roads due to black ice and snow. Various government offices and schools have adjusted their schedules, closing facilities while providing online services. Community support is mobilizing to assist those in need during this cold snap, with shelters opening and a cold weather advisory active. Residents are reminded to stay warm and safe as they navigate these challenging conditions.
Winter Storm Hits Lowcountry: Residents Urged to Stay Safe and Warm
This winter, the Lowcountry has been slapped with an unexpected winter storm that’s causing quite a stir. This sudden change in weather has led to a series of disruptions, affecting everything from business operations to travel plans, as local officials take steps to keep everyone safe.
Road Safety First
One of the biggest worries right now is road safety. With reports of black ice and snow covering many roads, officials in Beaufort and Jasper counties are advising residents to avoid driving, if at all possible. Given the conditions, it’s better to stay off the roads until they are cleared and safe for travel.
City Services Adjusted
Many local government offices have also taken the weather into account by adjusting their schedules. For instance, Hilton Head Town Hall will be closed on Thursday, January 23, but worry not! Online services will still be available for those who need assistance. Bluffton residents should also note that their town offices will be closed, but employees are working remotely to provide essential electronic services.
Meanwhile, the City of Beaufort announced that their offices will also remain closed on Thursday, with a decision on Friday’s operations to be made by 11:30 a.m. Thankfully, emergency services remain on standby, ready to respond to any urgent needs.
Service Closures Across the Area
Several convenience centers in Beaufort and Jasper counties will be shut down on Thursday, with their reopening on Friday depending on weather conditions. In Hardeeville, city offices closed on Wednesday and will remain closed on Thursday as well, with Friday hours yet to be determined. Similar news is reported from Jasper County, where offices are closed Wednesday and Thursday, leading to the cancellation of jury duty for the week as well.
Libraries, voting registration offices, and the Beaufort County Auditor’s Office have also closed their doors amid the weather disruption. Community meetings planned for Wednesday and Thursday have shifted to virtual formats in Bluffton to accommodate everyone’s safety. Furthermore, Palmetto Breeze transportation services are suspended for Thursday.
Impact on Businesses and Schools
Many local businesses and eateries have taken precautionary measures, announcing closures on Wednesday and adjusting their Thursday hours. Notable grocery stores, including Publix, Kroger, Harris Teeter, and ALDI, have also opted to close their doors temporarily.
Schools have not escaped the impacts either. The Beaufort County School District has called for an eLearning and remote workday on Wednesday, with all district buildings closed. Similarly, Jasper County has declared a closure for students, designating Thursday as an eLearning Day.
Stay Warm and Safe
With temperatures dropping, residents are reminded to keep their pets inside for warmth. Various shelters such as Sea Island Presbyterian Church and Christ Lutheran Church have opened their doors for those in need during this challenging weather. It’s crucial to wear warm clothing and stay bundled up to fend off the extreme cold, as wind chills could drop significantly, elevating the risk of hypothermia.
Community Support
A cold weather advisory is currently in effect, leading community resources to be established for reporting power outages, gas leaks, and water service issues. Waste Management operations have been suspended until roads are deemed safe for travel.
Finally, both the Hilton Head Island Airport and the Beaufort Executive Airport have closed their airfields, so travelers should get in touch with their carriers for the latest flight updates. Ferry service to Daufuskie Island has also been halted, with hopes to resume pending safety checks.
As the Lowcountry faces this winter storm, it’s a good reminder to look out for one another, prioritize safety, and stay informed. Here’s hoping for sunnier and warmer days ahead!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Live 5 News: Winter Storm Warning
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
- Count on 2 News: Live Updates on Winter Storm
- Google Search: Winter Storm News
- ABC News 4: Winter Weather Closures
- Google Scholar: Winter Weather Impact
- Live 5 News: Charleston Airport Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Storm
- Charleston City Paper: Snow Alert
- Google News: Winter Storm Charleston
