Sumter County officials warn residents to stay off roads if possible during snowstorm
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A snowstorm that could be the most impactful winter storm in more than a decade in the area could affect Sumter, Lee and Clarendon counties beginning overnight Friday into Saturday, according to a state official who spoke with Sumter first responders on Friday.
"Sumter County Emergency Management hosted this morning a conference call with S.C. Emergency Management Division and participating were representatives from Sumter County EMS, Sumter Fire Department, Sumter School District, Liberty STEAM Charter School, Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, S.C. Department Of Transportation, Sumter Police Department, City of Sumter and Sumter County Government," the department posted.
In the meeting, the office posted that "S.C. EMD Director Kim Stenson said this could be one of 'the more serious winter storms' the state has experienced" possibly in more than a decade, since 2014.
Ahead of the snow and extreme cold forecast to affect the tri-county area, Sumter law enforcement officials are asking residents to not drive on area roadways if they can avoid it to help first responders do their jobs safely.
According to a Facebook post from Sumter County Sheriff's Office, while South Carolina Department of Transportation will treat primary roads with a brine solution, "we urge you to stay off the roads in the event we get dangerous conditions of snow and ice." The office said City of Sumter Public Works and Sumter County Public Works are distributing salt "on key roadways and around public safety facilities" but that "we need to keep the roadways clear for first responders."
Sumter County Public Works Director John McLeod noted there are motor graders stationed at key geographic locations around the county. Salt will be distributed on key roadways and around public safety facilities.
Because of the low temperatures expected this weekend on top of winter precipitation, the office also warned that black ice may form on roadways, leading to dangerous travel conditions.
Local Animal Control officers also have a "special request," according to Sumter Police Department's Facebook page.
"As you prepare for forecasted snow and very low temperatures, please don't forget to protect your pets and check with relatives, neighbors, friends and associates, etc., to make sure they do same and give them a helping hand where needed.
"Plan to bring pets inside if you can.
"If you can't, make sure they have adequate shelter, food and fresh water. Line outdoor houses/shelters with straw, which is better able to shed moisture, to help keep them warm."
The department requested pet owners not use towels, hay or blankets, including fleece, to keep animals warm outdoors.
Follow The Sumter Item online before, during and after the storm for information that can help keep you safe and informed. All inclement weather coverage is accessible to read without a subscription, as a public safety service.
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