FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
To: News Media, Residents of Bamberg County
From: The Office of Public Information
Date: January 23, 2026
Re: Bamberg County Officials Outline Safety Preparations for Possible Icy Conditions This Weekend
Bamberg, South Carolina (January 2026) — Bamberg County officials continue to closely monitor forecasted inclement weather expected to impact the area this weekend, with icy conditions remaining the primary concern across the county.
Bamberg County Emergency Preparedness Director Tiffany Kemmerlin reiterated guidance shared during ongoing coordination calls with the State of South Carolina, which continues to stress the importance of residents preparing for potential icy weather conditions on Saturday and Sunday. Forecasts indicate the possibility of ice accumulation and freezing rain, which could increase the likelihood of power outages and downed trees. “At this time, there are no active watches or warnings for Bamberg County,” Kemmerlin said. “The estimated 10–20% threshold for moderate impact reported yesterday remains unchanged, and Bamberg County is currently at a 0% probability for major damage.”
While ice accumulation and freezing rain remain the main concerns, daytime temperatures are expected to rise over the weekend. However, officials caution that temperatures are forecast to drop below freezing on Monday and Tuesday nights, potentially allowing any remaining moisture to refreeze, creating hazardous conditions during morning commutes.
County officials confirmed that all coordinated efforts are in place should shelter operations become necessary due to extended power outages. The Bamberg County Office on Aging is also prepared to assist with transportation for residents who may need access to shelter services.
Residents are reminded to report downed trees or other non-emergency issues by calling the Bamberg County non-emergency number at (803) 245-3000, so the 911 system remains available for emergencies.
Bill Johnson, Director of Bamberg County Operations, confirmed that county Public Works crews are prepared and have already begun pretreating essential areas in coordination with the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT).
Bamberg County Administrator Joey Preston encouraged residents to remain vigilant and take proactive steps to prepare for potential winter weather impacts. “We ask residents to stay informed, plan ahead, and take the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their families,” Preston said. “Preparation remains one of the most effective tools we have in minimizing the impact of inclement weather.”
Bamberg County Government will continue operating under regular business hours until further notice, while officials closely monitor weather conditions throughout the weekend. Residents are encouraged to continue checking the Bamberg County Government Facebook page or visit www.bambergcounty.sc.gov for the most up-to-date information and any potential closures.
In the meantime, residents are encouraged to:
- Fully charge cell phones and other digitally powered devices
- Have plenty of blankets, candles, or extra batteries for flashlights in the event of a power outage
- Check on neighbors, especially seniors and individuals with disabilities
- Bring pets indoors and out of the icy weather conditions
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For more information regarding this news release, please email info@bambergcounty.sc.gov.