County monitoring winter weather conditions that could affect operations

Residents encouraged to prepare ahead, conduct in-person County business early

Richland County is preparing to potentially address winter weather conditions that could make travel on local roads and highways hazardous this weekend and early next week.

Rain is expected to move into the area Saturday, Jan. 24 and change to freezing rain that night. Freezing rain is expected to continue through the afternoon of Sunday, Jan. 25. High temperatures in the 30s are expected from Saturday through Monday, Jan. 26.

The County is closely monitoring the latest weather updates and has made no final decisions to modify hours of operation or public access to County facilities. In an effort to be proactive in serving residents, Richland County asks that those who prefer to conduct business in person with the County do so as soon as possible to avoid traveling in poor weather conditions. This will also keep roadways as clear as possible for emergency vehicles and first responders, and in the case of any modified operational hours of County facilities and services.

These facilities could include:

• The County Administration Building
• The County Health Department Building
• Richland County Judicial Center
• Decker Center
• County Solid Waste and Recycling facilities

Residents are encouraged to follow the County’s website and social media accounts for updates concerning County operations. For the latest weather and related updates, please monitor local, state and national outlets.

To stay safe in the event of an emergency, residents can also:

• Sign up for emergency notifications via phone, text or email: http://www.richlandcountysc.gov/Emergency-Preparedness
• Get real-time weather updates: rcwinds.com
• Remember tips for winter weather preparation: scemd.org

The Richland County Emergency Operations Center and Public Works Department encourage residents to travel with extreme caution this weekend, as freezing rain and black ice can make roadways hazardous.

Emergency Services personnel remind residents of the following cold-weather precautions:

• Prepare for possible power outages.
• Stock up on food, water and other necessary items to avoid having to travel.
• Be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. Never operate a generator indoors.
• Insulate exposed water pipes and run water to help prevent pipes from freezing.
• Make sure water sprinkler systems are turned off, as automatic watering systems contribute to icy walkways and roadways when they operate during freezing temperatures.
• If going outdoors, dress in layers of lightweight clothing. Wear gloves and a hat to help retain body heat.
• Turn off space heaters when leaving a room or before going to sleep.

About Richland County

The County Government is dedicated to providing exceptional public services through effective planning, proactive leadership, and inclusive governance to ensure that all residents, visitors, and businesses have equitable opportunities and improved quality of life today and in the future.