As Georgia and South Carolina prepare for a significant winter storm this weekend, officials are taking proactive measures to ensure public safety in the face of freezing temperatures. With temperatures expected to dip below freezing starting Friday, both states are bracing for potentially dangerous conditions, including the risk of frozen pipes, energy disruptions, and other hazards.
Statewide Emergency Declared as Freezing Temperatures Loom
On Thursday morning, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared a statewide emergency, ensuring that state resources would be available to address the challenges posed by the incoming winter storm. This order extends through Tuesday, and residents are being urged to prepare for a prolonged period of freezing weather.
In neighboring South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster also took action, issuing an executive order to allow transportation waivers. This will help maintain the movement of supplies and emergency services across the state. The cold front is expected to bring dangerous conditions throughout both the Lowcountry and Coastal Empire, with temperatures expected to remain below freezing for several days.
As the storm’s effects start to be felt, residents are advised to stay alert and plan accordingly for the freezing conditions.
Protecting Your Home: Freezing Pipes and Preventative Measures
One of the most pressing concerns during these cold snaps is the risk of frozen pipes, which can cause significant property damage. Local officials and plumbing experts are urging homeowners to take specific steps to minimize this risk.
Plumbers across Georgia are receiving a surge of calls as residents prepare for sub-freezing temperatures. Todd Reed, CEO of Henry Plumbing Co. in Savannah, explained that one of the key actions homeowners can take is to allow faucets to drip overnight. This is particularly important for faucets located along exterior walls or in areas that are more vulnerable to cold, such as outdoor hoses or dock faucets.
“Dripping pipes is the best way to prevent freezing,” Reed said. “If the pipes freeze and split, you could be looking at very costly damage. The longer the pipes stay frozen, the more damage they can do—both inside and outside your house.”
- Top tips for protecting your home:
- Let faucets drip overnight, particularly those on exterior walls.
- Shut off and drain outdoor faucets.
- Wrap exterior faucets with towels and secure them with duct tape to prevent splitting.
By taking these simple yet effective precautions, homeowners can help avoid the headache and expense of frozen or burst pipes.
Other Winter Storm Safety Considerations
In addition to safeguarding your plumbing, there are other essential winter storm safety measures to keep in mind. Both Georgia and South Carolina officials are advising residents to limit outdoor activities as much as possible. Extreme cold can cause hypothermia and frostbite, particularly for pets and vulnerable individuals.
For pets, make sure they stay indoors during the storm, or at the very least, keep outdoor time to a minimum. It’s also a good idea to check in on elderly neighbors or those who may need assistance preparing for the storm.
For those relying on electricity, Georgia Power has provided recommendations to conserve energy during the cold spell. Setting thermostats to 68 degrees or lower can help reduce the strain on the energy grid while keeping homes warm enough to prevent freezing.
Comparing This Week’s Freeze to the 2018 Snowstorm
For some, this winter storm may bring back memories of the 2018 snowstorm, which blanketed the region in heavy snow and freezing rain. While this storm isn’t expected to produce snow, the freezing temperatures will still have a significant impact. Local officials are particularly concerned about the length of time the cold will persist. Unlike 2018, this storm is expected to stretch across multiple days, leading to prolonged risks of frozen pipes and energy strain.
With the storm intensifying over the weekend, the area’s infrastructure is expected to be tested, with roads, water systems, and electrical grids all facing potential disruptions. Both states are working together to ensure that critical services are maintained and that residents have access to the resources they need during the storm.
