The City of Charleston is preparing for expected winter weather this weekend by taking steps to support residents and maintain essential services. Forecasts from the National Weather Service indicate that the area could receive 3 to 4 inches of snow starting midday Saturday and continuing into Sunday morning. Temperatures are predicted to fall into the low twenties, with wind chills dropping to single digits.
City officials report that Public Works crews are already deploying salt spreaders at police and fire stations, as well as on priority roadways, in an effort to reduce ice buildup. Some fleet vehicles are also being equipped with plow attachments ahead of the weekend.
In response to the anticipated cold temperatures, several warming centers will be available throughout the region. The City of Charleston will operate a warming center at Shaw Community Center (20 Mary Street) beginning at noon on Saturday, with plans to remain open through Tuesday or possibly longer depending on conditions.
Other area warming centers include Holy City Missions at Aldersgate Methodist in North Charleston (1444 Remount Road), Seacoast Summerville Warming Center (301 E 5th North Street), Seacoast North Charleston Warming Center (5505 North Rhett Avenue), and Hibben United Methodist Church in Mount Pleasant (690 Coleman Boulevard). Each center has specific hours and transportation options; for more information, residents can check CARTA service updates for relevant routes.
The city’s Citizen Services line will be staffed from 3 PM to midnight on Saturday, with Sunday hours yet to be finalized. Residents can call 843-724-7311 for non-emergency questions or damage reports. In case of emergency, residents should dial 911.
Officials advise residents to complete preparations by Friday night. “Avoid travel once snow begins. Bridges can freeze before other roads,” officials recommend. Additional safety advice includes limiting time outdoors, dressing in layers, keeping pets indoors when possible, letting indoor faucets drip slowly to prevent pipes from bursting, and maintaining a safe distance between heat sources and flammable materials.
Updates about weather conditions and city services will be shared through official City of Charleston channels including their website (Charleston-sc.gov), social media accounts on Instagram, Facebook, X, and by contacting the Citizen Services Desk at 843-724-7311 or citizenservices@charleston-sc.gov.
“City officials remain in close contact with Charleston County and the National Weather Service and will provide updates as conditions change.”
