This post summarizes the National Weather Service’s updated cold weather advisory for parts of inland Charleston, South Carolina. It explains who is affected, what conditions to expect, and practical steps residents can take to protect people, pets, plants, and plumbing.
As a long-time meteorologist, I’ll translate the advisory into clear guidance. This will help you prepare safely for the brief but potentially damaging cold snap.
When and where the advisory is in effect
The advisory was issued by the National Weather Service in Charleston early Monday at 3:19 a.m. It applies to a short window of cold weather expected on Tuesday morning.
Timing and precise locations matter for response. This is a focused event, not a long-term freeze.
Timing and affected counties
The advisory is valid from midnight to 8 a.m. on Tuesday. It specifically covers inland portions of the region.
Local jurisdictions named include:
- Inland Colleton County
- Inland Jasper County
- Allendale County
- Hampton County
- Dorchester County
What conditions to expect
Forecasters are calling for notably low felt temperatures that can stress vegetation, plumbing, and anyone exposed outdoors. The critical factor is how wind makes the cold feel—a small change in wind can increase the risk of frost and freeze damage.
Wind chills, frost, and freeze impacts
In the inland areas under the advisory, expect very cold wind chills in the upper teens to the low 20s. These values can cause rapid heat loss from exposed skin and increase the likelihood of frost forming on surfaces.
The NWS specifically warns that frost and freeze conditions can:
- Damage crops and sensitive vegetation
- Harm unprotected outdoor plumbing and irrigation systems
- Create hazardous conditions for animals and people if precautions aren’t taken
Practical safety steps for residents
Targeted actions will greatly reduce damage and risk. Focus on basic, effective measures that protect the most vulnerable—young plants, exposed pipes, outdoor pets, and people who must be outside during the window.
Actionable preparedness checklist
- Dress warmly: Wear layered clothing, hats, and gloves; limit time outdoors during the advisory.
- Protect pets: Keep animals indoors as much as possible and provide insulated bedding if outdoor housing is unavoidable.
- Shield plants: Move potted plants indoors, or cover garden beds and sensitive shrubs with frost cloths, burlap, or sheets.
- Prevent frozen pipes: Insulate exposed plumbing, wrap vulnerable pipes, and consider letting faucets drip slowly overnight to reduce freezing risk.
- Vehicle and travel prep: Keep a basic emergency kit in your vehicle and check tire pressure and battery condition before travel.
How this advisory differs from more severe products
Understanding the language of the NWS helps you gauge severity and act accordingly. The agency uses specific terms—an advisory, a warning, and a watch—each with different meanings for preparedness.
Advisory vs. warning vs. watch
Cold Weather Advisory: Signals seasonably cold, potentially damaging conditions but not typically life-threatening if proper precautions are taken.
Extreme Cold Warning: Issued when dangerously cold temperatures are occurring or imminent and present a greater risk to life and property.
Extreme Cold Watch: Alerts the public to the potential for extreme cold so people can prepare.
Adjust travel plans and ensure vehicles and survival kits are ready.
Here is the source article for this story: Cold weather advisory for Lowcountry for Tuesday