Temperatures in our area remain in the low to mid-30s. While the sun has melted some of the snow and ice on the roads, the National Weather Service forecasts temperatures overnight to drop right around 20 degrees. This will cause melted water to freeze creating black ice. Black ice is a thin coat of ice that can form on roads and bridges in multiple scenarios, and because it is transparent, it visually blends into the pavement, taking drivers by surprise. We will know more about hazardous road and driving conditions for Thursday early in the morning.
Should travel be necessary, please be advised of the following tips:
▪ Slow down: Reduce your speed and leave plenty of space between you and the car in front of you.
▪ Brake gently: Avoid slamming on the brakes, which can cause skidding.
▪ Use low gears: Low gears help maintain traction, especially on hills.
▪ Increase visibility: Turn on your lights and keep your windshield clean.
▪ Be careful on bridges and overpasses: These areas freeze first.
▪ Don't use cruise control or overdrive: These features can be dangerous on icy roads.
▪ Take it easy: Avoid sudden movements and don't panic.
▪ Wear your seat belt: This will help keep you safe in the event of an accident.
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Savannah Technical College, the leading regional provider of career-ready technical education in Coastal Georgia, will extend remote operations through the remainder of the week for campuses in Chatham, Effingham and Liberty counties.
“While the sight of snow on our campuses is certainly beautiful and a rare occurrence in Southeast Georgia, the safety and well-being of our students, faculty and staff is our absolute priority,” said Dr. Ryan Foley, President of Savannah Technical College. “By transitioning to remote operations, they can stay warm and safe at home while minimizing disruption to their educational journeys and professional development.”
In the interest of community safety, Savannah Tech encourages all members to stay informed by following advisories from local authorities.
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At this time, Beaufort County remains under a cold weather advisory. After consultation with Emergency Management regarding the forecast and road conditions, County offices will remain closed on Thursday, January 23, 2025. A decision regarding Friday, January 24, 2025, will be communicated by 3:00 p.m. on Thursday after Emergency Management’s projection of road conditions. SCDOT has prepared a winter storm resource page that has live updates on road conditions and closures.
County Convenience Centers will remain closed Thursday. Determinations for Friday, January 24 will be made at a later time, depending on weather conditions.
Ferry service to Daufuskie Island through Lowcountry Ferry has been suspended for Wednesday, January 22. While service is expected to resume tomorrow, ferry riders should monitor the website for any updates. Service is based on public safety, monitoring of weather conditions, and the Captain's discretion
Due to ice accumulation, both Hilton Head Island Airport and Beaufort Executive Airport airfields are closed. Travelers should check with their carriers for any possible flight delays or cancellations. Air travelers are encouraged to download their respective airline apps on their mobile devices and to enable notifications so they are sure to receive the latest official word from their airline. Travelers are encouraged to check their airlines for waivers, as well. Inquiries regarding flight information should be directed to the individual carriers. Operating schedules at both airports are subject to weather conditions.
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Due to impacts from Tuesday’s winter storm, the City of Savannah’s administrative offices and facilities will remain closed through Thursday, Jan. 23. The City remains under a State of Emergency effective until Friday Jan. 24.
Thursday’s City Council meeting, originally scheduled for 2 p.m., has been postponed until Tuesday, Feb. 4 at 10 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Board of Education’s Whitney Administrative Complex at 2 Laura Ave.
Sanitation routes will be affected by the closures. Residential garbage, recycling, and yard waste collection services will not operate on Thursday. The Bacon Park Convenience Center and Dean Forest Landfill will also remain closed through Thursday. Updates will be provided to the public as available.
The City’s 311 call center is active. Residents are encouraged to submit requests for services by calling or using the 311SAV App. For emergencies, dial 911.
Tuesday’s storm brought 1-3 inches of snow and ice to the city. City staff will remain in an emergency response posture through Friday. The National Weather Service is forecasting lows around 19 degrees Fahrenheit with wind chill values reaching 10 to 15 degrees.
Residents are urged to stay indoors overnight. The below-freezing temperatures can lead to frostbite and hypothermia with prolonged exposure.
Due to the low temperatures during the day Wednesday and limited melting, the cold temperatures overnight could create serious black ice conditions on the roadways Wednesday night and into Thursday. Roadways, especially bridges, overpasses, and secondary roads will be slick and hazardous. Residents are urged to limit travel.
City crews have been responding as requested to assist in the treatment of primary roadways in coordination with Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and Chatham County.
If travel is necessary, use the WAZE App to find the latest road conditions and closures. Residents are strongly encouraged to sign up for Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) alerts to receive the latest on road closures.
When driving or walking plan ahead and prepare for delays. Make sure the vehicle used is in good working condition. When driving, increase the following distance from other vehicles and give extra time when stopping. There have been numerous reports of drivers not following traffic signals. The City urges all drivers to obey traffic control devices, which continue to operate as normal.
Live Oak Public Libraries will close all libraries on Thursday, Jan. 23. Friday operations are yet to be determined.
Photo: jpgfactory / iStock / Getty Images
