Columbia Braces for Winter Storm Closures

Schools, businesses, and attractions shut down as snow approaches the Midlands region.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 1:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

With a winter storm predicted to bring snow to Columbia, South Carolina this weekend, many schools, businesses, and entertainment venues have announced closures and postponements. Lexington-Richland Five school district will have e-learning on February 2nd, while the Nickelodeon Theatre, Trustus Theatre, Workshop Theatre, the South Carolina State Museum, and Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens are among the organizations shutting down on January 31st and February 1st. Soda City Market has also been canceled for Saturday, January 31st.

Why it matters

The impending winter weather poses a threat to public safety and normal operations in the Columbia area. Closures and cancellations help protect residents and staff while also preventing unnecessary travel and potential accidents on icy roads.

The details

The National Weather Service has forecast several inches of snow for the Columbia region this weekend. In response, a number of schools, businesses, and attractions have announced temporary closures and event postponements. This includes the Lexington-Richland Five school district moving to e-learning on February 2nd, as well as shutdowns at the Nickelodeon Theatre, Trustus Theatre, Workshop Theatre, the South Carolina State Museum, Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens, and the cancellation of the Soda City Market on January 31st.

  • The winter storm is expected to hit Columbia on January 31st and February 1st.
  • Lexington-Richland Five will have e-learning on February 2nd.
  • The Nickelodeon Theatre, Trustus Theatre, Workshop Theatre, South Carolina State Museum, and Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens will be closed on January 31st and February 1st.
  • Soda City Market is canceled for Saturday, January 31st.

The players

Lexington-Richland Five

A school district serving the Chapin and Irmo areas of Columbia, South Carolina.

Nickelodeon Theatre

An independent movie theater located on Main Street in Columbia.

Trustus Theatre

A professional theater company in Columbia that produces plays and musicals.

Workshop Theatre

A community theater organization in Columbia that stages productions.

South Carolina State Museum

A museum in Columbia that explores the history and culture of South Carolina.

Riverbanks Zoo and Gardens

A zoo and botanical garden located along the Saluda River in Columbia.

Soda City Market

A weekly open-air market held on Main Street in downtown Columbia.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The impending winter storm has prompted a widespread shutdown of schools, businesses, and attractions in the Columbia area as the community prepares for potentially hazardous weather conditions. These closures and cancellations aim to protect public safety and minimize disruptions during the storm.