Aiken, SC, October 13, 2025
News Summary
Aiken, SC is bracing for a significant winter storm with a winter weather advisory issued for the Augusta area. From 10 a.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Saturday, the region may experience mixed precipitation, including snow and sleet, with accumulations of up to a half inch and ice around two-tenths of an inch. Local authorities are urging residents to prepare for hazardous traveling conditions and have declared a statewide state of emergency. Residents are advised to take action to ensure their homes and safety ahead of the storm.
Aiken, SC is preparing for a significant winter storm as a winter weather advisory has been issued for the Augusta area, which includes Columbia, Richmond, McDuffie, and Aiken counties. The advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Saturday and anticipates mixed precipitation with snow and/or sleet accumulations up to a half inch and ice accumulations around two-tenths of an inch.
Residents are cautioned to plan for slippery road conditions, especially affecting the Friday evening commute. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has declared a statewide state of emergency that will be in effect from Thursday through Tuesday in an effort to prepare for this winter storm. This declaration allows the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency to activate the State Operations Center and mobilize necessary resources.
The Georgia Department of Transportation, Department of Public Safety, and other state agencies have begun to provide essential personnel to the State Operations Center to ensure effective planning and response measures. Beginning at 7 p.m. Thursday, the Georgia Department of Transportation has started to treat roads with a brine solution on I-20 and I-520 in the Augusta area in anticipation of freezing conditions.
Local officials are advising residents to limit travel due to the dangerous conditions that may develop quickly. The Augusta Fire and Augusta-Richmond County Emergency Management are closely coordinating with county departments to ensure preparedness for the storm. The Emergency Operations Center is focused on ensuring that city departments are prepared to respond efficiently.
In addition to road safety preparations, Augusta Utilities is taking measures to safeguard critical systems and prepare for potential power outages. For those in need, shelters including the Salvation Army Center of Hope, Garden City Rescue Mission, and Augusta Rescue Mission will be available with no ID checks required for access. Daytime warming centers are also being established, and Augusta Transit is offering free transportation to these shelters to assist those affected.
Aiken County officials are actively monitoring the weather forecast and finalizing response plans, including preparing necessary equipment and personnel to address predictable issues associated with the storm. Residents are encouraged to take proactive measures, such as insulating pipes, securing outdoor items, and checking on vulnerable neighbors. Aiken city officials have access to dump trucks, sand, and other equipment if required and stand ready to respond to patrol calls as needed.
As winter weather approaches, residents are urged to turn off sprinkler systems to prevent ice formation on roadways, further contributing to public safety as conditions become hazardous.
Conclusion
With preparations underway, local authorities stress the importance of safety and readiness in light of the upcoming winter storm. Residents are advised to stay informed and heed any further announcements as the storm approaches.
FAQ
What is the duration of the winter weather advisory for the Augusta area?
The advisory is in effect from 10 a.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Saturday.
What accumulations are expected from the winter storm?
Mixed precipitation with snow and/or sleet accumulations up to a half inch and ice accumulations around two-tenths of an inch are anticipated.
What has the Governor announced regarding the state of emergency?
Georgia Governor Brian Kemp declared a statewide state of emergency from Thursday through Tuesday in preparation for the winter storm.
What measures are being taken for road safety?
The Georgia Department of Transportation has started treating roads with a brine solution on I-20 and I-520 in the Augusta area to prevent freezing.
What shelters are available for those in need?
Shelters include the Salvation Army Center of Hope, Garden City Rescue Mission, and Augusta Rescue Mission, with no ID checks required for access.
What should residents do to prepare their homes?
Residents are encouraged to prepare homes by insulating pipes, securing outdoor items, and checking on vulnerable neighbors.
Key Features of the Winter Storm Preparations
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration of Advisory | 10 a.m. Friday to 4 a.m. Saturday |
| Expected Precipitation | Mixed precipitation, snow/sleet up to 0.5 inch, ice up to 0.2 inch |
| State Emergency Declaration | Thursday through Tuesday |
| Emergency Response Initiatives | Activation of State Operations Center, road treatments |
| Shelters Available | Salvation Army, Garden City Rescue Mission, Augusta Rescue Mission |
| Resident Preparedness Recommendations | Insulate pipes, check on neighbors, secure outdoor items |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Weekend Events in Aiken County
Winter Storm Warning Issued for the Midlands
Early Morning Collision in Newberry County Leaves Students Hospitalized
Winter Storm Warning Issued for South Carolina
Midlands Schools Adjust Schedules for Hazardous Winter Weather
Winter Weather Hits Columbia with Early Snow and Sleet
Additional Resources
- WJBF: Weather Preparedness Event in Aiken
- Wikipedia: Weather Preparedness
- WACH: Possible Tornado in Langley, SC
- Google Search: Langley SC tornado
- WRDW: Dominion Energy Preparing for Power Outages
- Google Scholar: Power Outages
- Fox Weather: North Carolina Flooding
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- Post and Courier: Aiken Edgefield Schools Weather Closing
- Google News: Aiken Edgefield schools weather
Author: STAFF HERE NEWBERRY
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