Governor Henry McMaster has issued Executive Order 2026-02, declaring a State of Emergency ahead of a winter storm system expected to impact South Carolina beginning Saturday and continuing through the weekend, possibly into Monday.
The order activates the state’s Emergency Operations Plan, allowing agencies to quickly mobilize resources, authorizes the National Guard to prepare personnel and equipment for deployment, and enables state and local emergency managers to coordinate response efforts. Certain regulations for commercial vehicles have also been suspended to speed the transportation of emergency supplies.
Governor McMaster urged residents to closely monitor forecasts and take precautions, noting that winter weather can change rapidly and create hazardous conditions with little notice. Forecasters are calling for a mix of sleet, ice, and snow, along with freezing temperatures that could impact travel and utilities.
The South Carolina Emergency Management Division is working with local officials and the National Weather Service to monitor conditions. Residents are encouraged to prepare emergency kits, check on vulnerable neighbors, bring pets indoors, and avoid travel during icy conditions whenever possible.
For winter weather preparedness tips, visit the South Carolina Emergency Management Division’s website.