Winter weather prompts hazardous driving warnings in the Grand Strand area

HORRY COUNTY, SC (WPDE) — As a winter storm moves into the Grand Strand, officials are warning of hazardous driving conditions due to icy roads.

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP) have issued advisories as cold temperatures can cause ice to linger on roads longer than expected.

“Once the snow and ice accumulates on the roadways, even if it starts to warm up and melt a little bit, it can always refreeze when colder temperatures happen overnight,” said Kelly Moore, SCDOT director of public engagement. “We know that it is significantly colder in the area than normal.”

When ice turns to slush and tires run over it, the slush can refreeze, creating more ice and very dangerous driving conditions.

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SCDOT crews have been treating roads to reduce ice and snow buildup, as the cold surfaces make it easier for ice to stick.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol said Horry County is not used to snow, ice or sleet, which leads to an increase in collisions.

“Reduce your speed, increase your following distance, avoid any sudden acceleration or maneuvers, use your brakes carefully, and don’t use your cruise control. Be aware of road conditions and stay alert,” said Lance Corporal Lena Butler.

For those who must travel, SCDOT recommends using this resource to plan routes and see traffic conditions in real time through government traffic cameras.

The Highway Patrol also encourages motorists to carry a winter emergency kit and first aid kit if they must drive anywhere.

“In that kit you should have jumper cables, flare or reflector triangles, an ice scraper, a car charger for mobile phones, blankets, gloves, socks, hats, a first aid kit and a flashlight with extra batteries. If you have cat litter or sand, it can help your tires to get better traction if you’re stuck,” said Lance Corporal Butler.