MONCKS CORNER, S.C. — South Carolina’s state-owned electric and water utility is preparing for a multi-day winter weather event that could bring freezing rain, dangerously cold temperatures, and possible impacts to power service across the region.
Santee Cooper moved to Operating Condition 4 alert status as of noon, signaling a potential threat to its electric system as cold air and freezing precipitation are expected to enter the state this weekend, Jan. 24 and 25. About 2 million South Carolinians rely on the utility for electricity, either directly or through electric cooperatives.
Under OpCon 4, crews are completing freeze protection checklists at generating stations, fueling and checking vehicles, securing additional staff and contractors, and ensuring adequate supplies such as utility poles and transformers are available. The utility is also preparing to have extra personnel on site in case road conditions limit travel.
📣 STAY IN THE LOOP 📣
📰 Sign Up for Berkeley County, SC Newsletter ⬅️
The National Weather Service says confidence is increasing that at least minor winter weather impacts will occur across portions of southeast Georgia and southeast South Carolina late Saturday through Monday. While exact timing and precipitation types remain uncertain, the threat of freezing rain is rising, particularly north of Interstate 16. Forecasters estimate a 20 to 40 percent chance of moderate impacts, including hazardous travel and potential utility disruptions.
In addition to the risk of freezing precipitation, Arctic air is expected to settle over the region Monday night into Tuesday morning. Temperatures could fall into the teens west of Interstate 95 and the low-to-mid 20s along the coast. Northwest winds around 10 mph will push wind chill values into the teens across the area, making conditions feel even colder. The cold temperatures may also limit melting, allowing any ice or snow accumulations to persist into early next week.
Santee Cooper officials say the extreme cold could also drive up electricity usage as customers rely more heavily on heating systems. Heat pumps typically work harder in freezing conditions, and emergency heat or heat strips may activate, using significantly more electricity.
To help manage energy use while staying warm, the utility encourages customers to set thermostats to 68 degrees or lower, wear warm clothing indoors, seal air leaks around doors and windows, close window coverings at night, and change air filters regularly to keep heating systems running efficiently.
Customers can report power outages and find storm safety information, including guidance on generators and downed power lines, through Santee Cooper’s Storm Center website or by calling 888-769-7688.
