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South Carolina Winter Storm Death Toll Rises to 37

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 17:00 GMT by WMBF News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

COLUMBIA, S.C. - February 13, 2026 - The relentless winter storm gripping South Carolina has claimed the lives of 37 residents, with the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) announcing 11 additional fatalities today. The escalating death toll paints a grim picture of the storm's devastation, highlighting the vulnerability of communities across the state and the ongoing challenges facing recovery efforts.

The deceased range in age, underscoring the indiscriminate impact of the severe weather. Dr. Emily Carter, Director of the DPH, expressed deep condolences, stating, "Our hearts go out to the families who have lost loved ones during this devastating storm. We are working closely with local medical examiners to confirm the causes of death and to provide support to grieving families." The DPH's commitment to accurate death investigations and compassionate family support is crucial during this difficult time.

The storm's impact extends beyond the tragic loss of life. Hundreds of thousands of South Carolinians remain without power as of today, February 13th, 2026. The widespread outages are crippling essential services, impacting healthcare facilities, communication networks, and basic necessities for residents. Utility crews, bolstered by reinforcements from across the Southeast, are working tirelessly to restore power, but officials caution that full restoration could take several more days. This extended outage period presents significant challenges, especially for vulnerable populations.

The State Emergency Response Team is actively coordinating with local governments to distribute resources and support to affected communities. Emergency shelters remain open, providing refuge for those displaced from their homes due to storm damage or power outages. However, shelter capacity is becoming strained, and officials are continuously assessing needs and expanding resources where possible. The logistical complexities of delivering aid - hampered by icy roads and ongoing power failures - are adding to the difficulties.

Beyond Immediate Survival: Addressing Long-Term Impacts

The current focus remains on immediate life-saving measures - restoring power, providing shelter, and ensuring access to medical care. However, state officials are already beginning to consider the long-term consequences of this severe winter weather event. Damage assessments are underway to determine the extent of infrastructure damage, including roads, bridges, and critical utilities. These assessments will be vital for securing federal disaster aid and initiating a comprehensive recovery plan.

The economic impact of the storm is also a growing concern. Businesses have been forced to close, disrupting commerce and impacting livelihoods. Agricultural losses are expected to be significant, particularly for farmers reliant on winter crops. The tourism industry, a major driver of the South Carolina economy, will likely experience a downturn in the short term. State economic development officials are working to develop strategies to mitigate these economic impacts and support the recovery of affected businesses.

The DPH continues to emphasize preventative measures to safeguard public health. Residents are strongly advised to avoid all unnecessary travel, remain indoors and warm, and check on vulnerable neighbors and elderly relatives. A particularly critical warning centers around the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning, urging residents to never use generators, grills, or other fuel-burning devices indoors.

Governor Reynolds' declaration of a state of emergency has unlocked crucial state resources and facilitated access to federal assistance. This declaration is instrumental in streamlining the recovery process and ensuring that affected communities receive the support they need. Residents are strongly encouraged to stay informed by monitoring local news and weather reports for the latest updates.

Looking Ahead: Climate Change and Future Preparedness

While immediate recovery efforts are paramount, this winter storm raises important questions about South Carolina's preparedness for extreme weather events. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of such storms, demanding a proactive approach to infrastructure resilience and emergency preparedness. State officials are considering long-term investments in weather forecasting technology, infrastructure upgrades, and public awareness campaigns to enhance the state's ability to withstand future climate-related disasters. A review of current emergency response protocols is also planned to identify areas for improvement.

Residents can find information on shelter locations, power outage maps, and safety tips on the DPH website ([ https://www.scdhec.gov/ ]) and the State Emergency Management Division website ([ https://www.scemd.org/ ]). Updates will continue to be provided as the situation evolves.