News Summary
Columbia, SC, is preparing for winter weather as the University of South Carolina reversed afternoon class cancellations due to a winter storm. Despite initial fears of a snow day, students are instructed to attend classes as scheduled. The National Weather Service has issued warnings for dangerously low temperatures and possible snow accumulation, leading local authorities and schools to modify schedules for safety. Residents are advised to prepare for potential travel disruptions and to monitor weather updates closely.
Columbia Prepares for Winter Weather: Classes Back On at USC!
Columbia, South Carolina, is getting ready for a taste of winter weather as the University of South Carolina (USC) lifted its cancellation of afternoon classes that were initially wiped off the schedule due to a looming winter storm. It seems Mother Nature can’t make up her mind, and USC is rolling with the punches!
Class Is In Session!
Late Monday afternoon, a cancellation notice was sent out, spooking students and faculty alike. Everyone braced themselves for a snow day! But just a few hours later, the news flipped again. An email update from the university kept everyone in the loop, instructing students to show up for classes on Tuesday as originally planned. It’s as if the campus was saying, “Not so fast, winter!”
With the weather heating up on everyone’s minds, students are scrambling to get their books and notes ready. After all, the university’s email proclaimed that everyone should be prepared to attend all classes unless there’s more word from the higher-ups. Talk about a roller coaster ride of emotions for students!
Winter Warnings in Effect
To add to the excitement, the National Weather Service has flagged the Midlands with a Cold Weather Advisory, warning folks about dangerously chilly temperatures and wind chills ready to sweep through the area. Hang on to those hats, everyone! On Tuesday, temperatures barely reach above freezing while nighttime lows will send shivers down your spine—projected to dip into the teens.
Snowflakes are expected to dance down from the sky starting Tuesday afternoon, intensifying as the clock strikes six, peaking between 6 PM to 10 PM. It’s been a while since Columbia has seen a good snow—January 2022 and 2025 were the last big flakes that left a mark. But this time, we could see light accumulation of about an inch in the Columbia area, while some areas in the southern Midlands might even get a hoot of 2-3 inches.
Stay Safe and Prepared!
While the snow may be light, local authorities are seeing the potential for travel disruptions. The NWS has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for the Midlands, alerting everyone about potentially slippery roads. Be cautious, especially on untreated roads, bridges, and overpasses that can quickly turn into icy pathways. A little precaution goes a long way!
For those taking to the roads on Tuesday, it’s advisable to keep an extra flashlight, some snacks, and a bottle of water handy in case of emergencies. You never know what could happen when winter shows up uninvited!
What’s more, Richland County government offices are already making arrangements. They announced they would close at noon on Tuesday to dodge the worst of the winter weather. Meanwhile, Governor Henry McMaster has ordered all state agencies, including universities, to remain open, highlighting the ongoing tug-of-war between academic schedules and unpredictable weather. This was all shared on social media, keeping the community in the know.
School Districts Feeling the Heat
Local school districts aren’t sitting back, either. In light of the winter storm predictions, many are adjusting their schedules with some considering early dismissals or even switching to e-Learning days to keep students safe and parents informed. Richland and Lexington counties are also monitoring the situation closely, ready to make further changes if the weather escalates.
As you prepare for this wintery mix, don’t forget to prep your homes as well! Cover outdoor pipes, and letting indoor faucets drip is essential to prevent any freezing mishaps.
So Columbia, whether you’re headed to class or settling in for a cozy night at home, keep those winter vibes ready and remember to stay safe! You never know when an unexpected snow day is just around the corner.
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV
- The State
- The Washington Post
- WLTX
- Island Packet
- Wikipedia: Winter storm
- Google Search: winter weather South Carolina
- Google Scholar: winter weather impacts
- Encyclopedia Britannica: winter storm
- Google News: winter storm South Carolina
