Preparing for weekend winter storm

Accumulation of snow, sleet and ice could create hazardous conditions.

A significant winter storm is forecast for Greenville beginning Friday night, January 23. The storm is expected to bring a mix of snow, sleet and ice accumulation, creating hazardous travel conditions and the high potential for power outages.

“The forecast models are not identical, but they are all in alignment that we will see a winter storm.” said Greenville City Fire Chief Brian Horton. “Local and state governments are taking this seriously. We are preparing. We encourage residents to do the same.”

With cold temperatures and dangerous weather expected, Greenville City Fire Department (GCFD) encourages residents to take steps now to protect their families, homes and pets. Preparation ahead of the storm can reduce risks and help keep the community safe.

“Think beyond Saturday and Sunday,” Horton said. “This will not be a typical South Carolina storm. We will not have 60-degree temperatures and be back in shorts on Monday. There is frigid air behind the precipitation.”

If you experience or witness an emergency, call 911 immediately.

Visit the City of Greenville’s Emergency Communications webpage for emergency information.

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.