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South Carolina Under State of Emergency Amid Historic Winter Storm

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 7:48 GMT by Fox Carolina
      Locales: South Carolina, UNITED STATES

GREENVILLE, S.C. - February 23rd, 2026 - A state of emergency remains in effect across South Carolina as a severe winter storm continues to batter the region, prompting the deployment of the South Carolina National Guard and widespread disruptions to daily life. Governor Evelyn Thompson activated approximately 500 National Guard soldiers earlier this week, anticipating the escalating severity of the weather event, which is now being described by meteorologists as potentially historic for the Palmetto State.

The storm, dubbed "Winter's Fury" by local news outlets, has already delivered significant snowfall - exceeding 18 inches in the mountainous regions of Upstate South Carolina - coupled with a substantial layer of ice that has rendered many roadways impassable. The National Weather Service extended winter storm warnings through Tuesday evening, predicting continued snowfall and dangerously low temperatures. Power outages are widespread, affecting over 350,000 homes and businesses as of this morning. Duke Energy and other utility companies are working around the clock to restore service, but progress is hampered by the hazardous conditions and difficulty accessing affected areas.

Adjutant General Frank Welch addressed the public in a press conference earlier today, stating, "Our priority remains the safety and well-being of all South Carolinians. The National Guard is fully engaged in supporting local authorities and first responders. We're not just responding to immediate crises; we're proactively positioning resources to prevent further hardship." The Guard's deployment focuses on three core areas: search and rescue operations for stranded motorists and individuals in vulnerable locations, clearing critical roadways to allow access for emergency vehicles and essential supply deliveries, and the distribution of vital resources such as food, water, and blankets to shelters and isolated communities.

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) is struggling to keep pace with the accumulating snow and ice. While crews are actively plowing and applying salt and sand, the sheer volume of precipitation and the extremely low temperatures are significantly hindering their efforts. SCDOT Commissioner Sarah Miller urged residents, "We implore everyone to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Conditions are treacherous, and first responders are already stretched thin. Every unnecessary vehicle on the road increases the risk for everyone." The Commissioner also noted that SCDOT is prioritizing the clearing of interstate highways and major arteries to facilitate the delivery of emergency supplies and the movement of essential personnel.

Schools and businesses throughout the state have largely remained closed for the past two days, and many have announced extensions of these closures through Wednesday. The economic impact of the storm is expected to be substantial, with lost productivity and increased costs for repairs and recovery efforts. The agricultural sector is also bracing for significant losses, particularly in the peach and citrus industries, which are vulnerable to prolonged freezing temperatures.

This storm is particularly unusual for South Carolina due to its duration and the combination of heavy snowfall and significant ice accumulation. Climate experts suggest that while extreme weather events are becoming more frequent globally, the specific characteristics of "Winter's Fury" may be linked to a shifting jet stream pattern and a weakening of the polar vortex. Further research is planned to determine the long-term implications of this event.

The state's emergency management division is coordinating efforts between various agencies, including the National Guard, SCDOT, the State Law Enforcement Division, and local emergency services. Shelters have been opened in numerous locations across the state to provide temporary housing and warmth for those displaced by the storm or without adequate heating. Residents are encouraged to check their local news and government websites for information on shelter locations and emergency resources. The Red Cross has also mobilized volunteers to assist with shelter operations and provide support to affected communities.

Authorities are continuing to monitor the storm's progress and are urging residents to remain vigilant and heed all safety warnings. The situation remains fluid, and updates will be provided as they become available.