South Carolina Braces for Winter Storm: Governor Declares Emergency, National Guard Activated Amid Freezing Conditions

Governor Henry McMaster has declared a state of emergency ahead of a winter storm bringing sleet, ice, snow, and freezing temperatures this weekend, activating the National Guard and suspending commercial vehicle rules to speed aid, according to the governor's office. The State Emergency Operations Center moved to full activation at OPCON 1 on January 24, with over 180 aid requests processed, 13 shelters open, and thousands of personnel from transportation and public safety mobilizing, reports the South Carolina Emergency Management Division.

In politics, the 126th General Assembly's second session began January 13, with early moves in the House and Senate recapped by South Carolina Public Radio's South Carolina Lede podcast. State Superintendent Ellen Weaver pitched a 2026 education budget to lawmakers, seeking $70 million for instructional materials, $120 million for safer schools via the Education Infrastructure Bank, and 300 new buses to cut fleet age further, per the South Carolina Department of Education.

Economically, Poland-based JGB Brothers announced a $7 million plant in Bamberg County for food fibers, creating 40 jobs by late 2026, aided by a $200,000 state grant, as detailed by Area Development. Tri-County Technical College broke ground on a $31 million Anderson campus expansion for workforce training in mechatronics and more, according to SC News Biz. U.S. Rep. James Clyburn secured $50 million in federal funds for Sixth District projects like university centers and infrastructure, ABC News 4 reports.

Community efforts include these expansions boosting education and jobs amid steady manufacturing growth.

Looking Ahead, tune in for Governor McMaster's State of the State address on January 28, broadcast live on South Carolina ETV and Public Radio, outlining session priorities. The Senate meets at noon on January 27.

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