Chilly Days Ahead: Lowcountry Prepares for a Cold Snap

Chilly Days Ahead: Lowcountry Prepares for a Cold Snap!

As the sun sets over Beaufort, the air is filled with a crisp chill that signals an incoming blast of frigid weather. The National Weather Service is ringing alarm bells as the Lowcountry braces itself for unusually low temperatures this week, plummeting well below the seasonal averages. If you’re in the area, it’s time to bundle up and prepare for a significant drop in temperatures!

Below-Freezing Predictions

Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, residents can expect lows dipping to a brisk 28-30 degrees in Beaufort and around 32 degrees in the Hilton Head area. For those living further inland, temperatures may be even colder! According to Courtney Maskell, a meteorologist with the NWS in Charleston, the typical low around this time of year is around 45 degrees, making this cold snap quite extraordinary.

Churches Offering Warmth and Shelter

In light of this impending cold, several local churches are stepping up to help those in need. The Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office has reported that two churches will open their doors to the homeless on Tuesday evening. Sea Island Presbyterian Church on Lady’s Island will welcome guests at 5 p.m. and will provide a warm meal for dinner, breakfast, and even showers before closing at 8 a.m. the following day.

Meanwhile, Christ Lutheran Church on Hilton Head Island plans to start its services a bit later, opening at 5:30 p.m. and serving dinner along with a to-go breakfast option until 7:30 a.m. on Wednesday. If you need a ride to the church, the Deep Well Project on Capital Drive will be offering transportation at 5:30 p.m. and 9 p.m..

It’s important to note that these shelters have certain safety regulations: weapons, alcohol, smoking, and pets will not be permitted, although service animals are welcome. For anyone interested in learning more, give Sea Island Presbyterian Church a ring at 843-525-0696 or reach out to Christ Lutheran at 843-785-6570.

How to Prepare Your Home

But it’s not just about staying warm indoors! The NWS is advising residents—especially pet owners—to bring their furry friends inside and cover any delicate plants that might not fare well in the harsh cold. Andy Mattie, who directs field operations for the Beaufort-Jasper Water & Sewer Authority, has some savvy tips to help you avoid any unfortunate plumbing incidents during the freeze:

• Shut off and drain any outside faucets and irrigation systems that won’t be in use.
• Seal any drafts in unheated spaces like garages and crawl spaces.
• Have essentials handy, such as heat tape, pipe insulation, a portable space heater, and even a hair dryer.
• Know where your home’s master water valve is located, and turn it off if you experience a burst pipe.

What to Expect in the Coming Days

While the chilly weather is set to linger throughout the week, there’s a silver lining on the horizon! The temperatures are expected to gradually rise, returning to the 40s by Saturday night. So hang in there, Lowcountry! This cold blast is a passing phenomenon, and warmer days are on the way.

Stay cozy, keep an eye on the weather, and make sure to look out for one another during this chilly stretch. You never know; a small act of kindness could make all the difference!