Heavy Snow and Extreme Cold Forecast for Upstate South Carolina

Residents urged to prepare for hazardous winter weather conditions on January 31st

Jan. 31, 2026 at 9:55am

South Carolina's Upstate region is bracing for a major winter storm on January 31st, with forecasts calling for 3-7 inches of snow accumulation and dangerously cold wind chills as low as zero degrees. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning and an extreme cold warning for the area, advising residents to take precautions against the risk of hypothermia and frostbite.

Why it matters

This winter storm is expected to significantly impact travel, power, and daily life across the Upstate region. Authorities are urging residents to stay off the roads, prepare their homes for the cold, and take measures to protect themselves from the extreme conditions.

The details

The snow is predicted to begin falling early on January 31st and continue throughout the day, with the heaviest accumulations expected along the I-85 and I-77 corridors. In addition to the snow, there is also a chance of patchy freezing fog in the Greenville area during the afternoon hours. Temperatures are forecast to remain around 27 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, but will plummet into the teens by the evening, with wind chill values as low as zero degrees.

  • Snow is expected to begin falling early on January 31st and continue throughout the day.
  • The winter storm warning is in effect until 7 a.m. on February 1st.
  • An extreme cold warning will be in effect from 7 p.m. on January 31st through 10 a.m. on February 1st.
  • The snow is expected to taper off around 11 p.m. on January 31st.

The players

National Weather Service

The federal agency responsible for issuing weather forecasts and warnings for the United States.

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What’s next

Residents are advised to monitor weather forecasts, prepare their homes and vehicles for the extreme conditions, and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm.

The takeaway

This winter storm is expected to be a significant weather event for the Upstate region, with the potential to disrupt daily life and pose serious risks to public safety. Authorities are urging residents to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their property.