News Summary
Beaufort, South Carolina experienced a rare winter wonderland as Winter Storm Enzo brought significant snowfall for the first time in seven years. With about 3 inches of sleet and snow reported, local emergency officials opened cold weather shelters to support those in need. Schools had to adapt their schedules, facing a shortage of e-learning days, while municipalities temporarily closed due to hazardous road conditions. As the city manages the aftermath, residents are reminded to stay prepared for future winter storms.
Beaufort Blanketed in Snow by Rare Winter Storm Enzo
It’s not every day that Beaufort, South Carolina, gets a *taste of winter wonderland*. But this past week, residents experienced just that as Winter Storm Enzo swept through the area, bringing with it the first significant snowfall in seven long years. The storm officially made its grand entrance on Tuesday, January 21, 2023, leaving locals in a frosty daze.
Sneaky Snowfall and Icy Road Woes
The National Weather Service in Charleston reported that Beaufort received about 3 inches of sleet and snow, while nearby Port Royal wasn’t far behind with 2.5 inches. Winter Storm Enzo’s arrival sent kids scrambling for their snow gear, ready to frolic in the flurries, but it also turned roads into slippery challenges. The melting snow during the day combined with the colder overnight temperatures made for a risky driving situation as roads refroze and became hazardous.
Emergency Warnings and Shelter Support
With temperatures dipping into the low 20s overnight, emergency officials urged everyone to think twice before heading out. The community rallied together to help those in need by opening cold weather shelters at places like Sea Island Presbyterian Church and Christ Lutheran Church. These shelters provided warm sleeping spaces, along with showers, dinners, and breakfasts to comfort those affected by the cold snap. Up to 30 folks took shelter at Sea Island each night, proving that a warm cup of coffee and a roof overhead can go a long way during frigid times.
Schools in a Snowy Tangle
As for the kiddos, the Beaufort County School District (BCSD) had to rethink their plans. Tuesday saw a half-day of school, which was quickly followed by an e-learning day on Wednesday. However, in a twist, the district has already burned through its e-learning days for the year, thanks to multiple weather events. This means students will have to mark their calendars for March 17 to make up for the classes missed on Thursday, January 23. Discussion is still underway about additional make-up days for the missed school on Friday, January 24, with more information to come from the Beaufort County Board of Education in February.
Municipalities Close Up Shop
As the icy grip of Winter Storm Enzo persisted, local municipalities decided it was best to shy away from business as usual, closing down until the icy roads cleared up. While this might be an inconvenience, safety always comes first, and with memories of Beaufort’s last snowfall in 2018, when 3.5 inches blanketed the city, it’s a reminder that weather can turn serious surprisingly fast.
Weather Watching and Future Forecasts
In the lead-up to Winter Storm Enzo, a winter storm watch and cold weather advisory were issued, setting expectations for residents. Early forecasts had indicated a possibility of up to two inches of snow, with some concerning chatter about freezing rain. Meteorologists had their hands full explaining this unusual weather setup making its way through southeast South Carolina. Overall, it’s safe to say that Winter Storm Enzo caught many off guard, adding a frosty twist to everyday life in Beaufort.
As the city recovers and the roads begin to thaw, residents are reminded that winter can still sneak up on us in the south. Stay warm and keep those shovels handy just in case—because you never know when the next snowy surprise might come knocking!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Beaufort Reschedules Strategic Planning Retreat Due to Storm
Beaufort Braces for Rare Winter Storm Enzo
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Beaufort County Braces for a Rare Winter Wonderland
Final Four Rhesus Macaque Monkeys Recaptured in Yemassee
Snowy Conditions Persist in Beaufort County
Much-Needed Rain Set to Hit Southern California
Winter Weather Causes Closures and Cancellations Across Lowcountry
Beaufort County Experiences Rare Winter Wonderland
Additional Resources
- AOL News
- Island Packet
- ABC News 4
- Bluffton Today
- Your Island News
- Wikipedia: Winter Storm
- Google Search: Beaufort South Carolina Winter Storm
- Google Scholar: Winter Storm Impact on Schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Storm
- Google News: Beaufort County Weather
