In true southern fashion, bread aisles were bare Wednesday evening as the Upstate prepares for freezing rain, snow and ice this weekend.
Wednesday afternoon, January 21, 2026, Governor McMaster declared a State of Emergency for South Carolina shortly after Governor Josh Stein declared the same for North Carolina. Additionally, South Carolina's Price Gouging Law is now in effect which states it is unlawful to “rent or sell or offer to rent or sell a commodity at an unconscionable price.”
According to the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources State Climatology Office, the "Most likely scenario, not heavily favored due to uncertainty: Snow, if any, and sleet in the Upstate starting on Saturday, will eventually turn to freezing rain. There may be a sleet accumulation into Saturday night, and a damaging ice buildup is possible on Sunday. Travel will be hazardous through at least Monday morning. Should there be a significant sleet accumulation, it would be slow to melt behind the storm as it remains cold."
Weatherology Meteorologist Ray Miller says the Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the weekend, beginning early Saturday morning, January 24, 2026. He says the greatest concern is ice accumulation beginning Saturday night into Sunday morning. Miller says there's the "potential for up to 6 inches of snowfall but up to 1 inch of ice and that is the really significant concern..."
The City of Greenville offering tips to survive the Freezepocalypse headed our way:
"Recommended Emergency Supply Kit
Water (one gallon per person per day for at least three days)
Non-perishable food items
Radio (hand crank or battery powered)
Flashlight
Extra batteries
Mobile phone charger
First aid kit
Extra blankets and warm clothing
Heat Your Home Safely
Never use a stove or oven to heat your home.
If using a fireplace, use a glass or metal fire screen large enough to catch sparks and rolling logs.
Operate generators outdoors only, in a well-ventilated area at least 20 feet away from doors, windows and vents.
Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn.
Protect Your Pets and Your Pipes
Bring pets indoors whenever possible and ensure outdoor animals have shelter and unfrozen water.
If your home has foundation vents, close them. Foundation vents are openings in a home's foundation wall that allow fresh air to circulate in crawl spaces, which can help prevent moisture buildup and protect pipes from freezing.
Disconnect all hoses.
Run water at a low level overnight."
COLUMBIA, S.C. – Governor Henry McMaster today issued Executive Order 2026-02 declaring a State of Emergency in preparation for a winter storm system expected to impact the state beginning Saturday and continuing through the weekend, possibly into Monday. The governor's order activates the South Carolina Emergency Operations Plan, allowing state agencies to quickly mobilize resources, allows the state National Guard to activate personnel and prepare equipment for deployment, and allows state and local emergency management officials to begin coordinating response efforts. In addition, the order suspends certain rules and regulations for commercial vehicles and operators of commercial vehicles in order to expedite the transportation of emergency response resources.
“South Carolinians should remain aware of local forecasts and take appropriate precautions ahead of this weekend's storm, as winter weather can change quickly and create hazardous conditions with little notice,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “Preparations are already underway by state agencies, and this State of Emergency ensures Team South Carolina is ready to respond and support communities as conditions develop."
Forecasters report a mix of sleet, ice, and snow, along with freezing temperatures, which is expected to create hazardous travel conditions and impact utilities across portions of the state.
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division is working closely with state and local partners, including the National Weather Service, to monitor conditions. Officials urge residents to follow trusted sources for accurate, up-to-date weather information.
Residents are encouraged to:
Monitor forecasts from your local National Weather Service office. Keep an emergency supply kit for your home and vehicle stocked with essentials, including water, food, medications, flashlights, and batteries. Follow safety tips when using alternative heating appliances. Check on neighbors, especially older adults and those who may need assistance. Bring pets indoors, ensure they have warm shelter, and keep them safe from freezing temperatures. Stay off the roads during periods of freezing temperatures and precipitation. Be aware that bridges and overpasses ice before other roads. If you must travel, use extreme caution, slow down, and avoid sudden braking or turns. Additionally, ensure your cell phone is charged and let someone know where you are going, what your travel route is, and when you expect to arrive. For more winter weather preparedness tips and safety information, visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s Winter Weather Guide.