Extreme Cold Watch Covers Allendale County, Prepare for Dangerous Wind Chills

The National Weather Service Charleston office issued an Extreme Cold Watch on December 12 that included portions of southeast South Carolina, naming Allendale and nearby counties among the areas at risk. The watch warned that an arctic air mass moving into the region from Sunday evening through Monday morning produced dangerously cold wind chills near 10 degrees Fahrenheit in some locations.

Officials highlighted several immediate risks for residents. Cold related injuries such as hypothermia and frostbite were a primary concern for people who are outdoors for extended periods or who lack adequate heating. Local heating systems were expected to face increased strain, which could lead to outages or reduced indoor temperatures for households already operating near capacity. The watch also noted the likelihood of greater demand for warming shelters and heating assistance during and after the cold spell.

Local emergency managers and social service agencies were urged to prepare warming centers and outreach where possible. County and municipal responders were asked to check resource availability and coordinate with nonprofit partners to support people experiencing homelessness and households without reliable heating. Residents were urged to check on elderly and medically vulnerable neighbors, protect pets by bringing them indoors when possible, and safeguard outdoor plumbing and water lines from freezing.

Practical preparation steps included readying vehicles and homes for subfreezing temperatures and wind chills. Households were advised to verify that heating systems were operating, to have emergency supplies and backup heat plans if possible, and to keep mobile devices charged in case of power interruptions. Protecting exposed pipes and securing outdoor faucets and hoses can reduce the risk of freezing and costly repairs.

Although the watch covered a short period in mid December, the conditions underscored how quickly extreme cold can stress local services and vulnerable populations. Residents who need assistance or who have concerns about warming space availability were encouraged to contact Allendale County emergency management or local social service providers for help and information.