Officials warn of possible travel hazards, outages, and dangerous cold early next week
Columbus County officials are tracking a winter system expected to move in this weekend, bringing a mix of rain, freezing rain, and sleet to parts of the county. While no Winter Storm Watch is in effect locally, nearby counties are under alerts, and conditions may vary because Columbus sits near the rain‑to‑ice transition line.
A shift to a wintry mix Saturday afternoon, with freezing rain posing the greatest concern. The highest‑impact period is expected late Saturday through early Sunday before precipitation returns to rain by Sunday afternoon. Slick roads and scattered power outages are possible, especially where ice accumulates. Winds up to 25 mph could add strain to trees and power lines.
Temperatures will plunge early next week, with wind chills dropping into the single digits Monday night. Prolonged cold may worsen travel issues and create risks for residents without heat.
County operations remain mostly normal: offices will open Monday and operate on a two‑hour delay Tuesday. Recycling centers plan to open Saturday and Monday, with Mollie and China Grove opening at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday. Trash and court schedules are expected to continue as normal, though all plans may change if conditions worsen.
A warming center will be open behind Facts of Life Church at 506 N. Lee Street in Whiteville from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. on nights below 40°F, offering shelter, hot meals, and hygiene supplies.
Residents are urged to use generators only outdoors and well away from homes.
Emergency Services will continue monitoring the storm and issue updates as needed.
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