FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
To: News Media, Residents of Bamberg County
From: The Office of Public Information
Date: January 22, 2026
Re: Bamberg County Urges Residents to Prepare for Possible Inclement Weather This Weekend
Bamberg, South Carolina (January 2026) — Bamberg County officials are urging residents to remain alert and prepared as potentially inclement weather is forecast to impact the area this weekend. Governor Henry McMaster has already issued a State of Emergency for South Carolina in anticipation of winter weather conditions.
According to Tiffany Kemmerlin, Bamberg County Emergency Preparedness Director, the county participated in a recent conference call with the State of South Carolina to review the latest projections. “Based on information shared during the state briefing, the likelihood of moderate impact in Bamberg County on Saturday and Sunday is currently estimated at a 10–20% threshold,” Kemmerlin said. “If conditions develop as projected, the county could experience up to a quarter of an inch of ice along with wind gusts ranging from 25 to 30 miles per hour. The current forecast is subject to change and may improve or deteriorate. Regardless of outcomes, we should remain prepared.”
Officials noted that the primary concern with the forecast is the potential for power outages, particularly if ice accumulates and high winds occur. While Bamberg County does not currently operate warming stations, shelters will be made available if power outages persist for an extended period.
The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) and Bamberg County Government emphasized that their top priority during inclement weather is public safety. “SCDOT’s primary focus is the safety of our roadways, which means keeping roads and bridges open and accessible—especially for first responders and other essential travelers,” officials stated.
Bill Johnson, Bamberg County Director of Operations, said road and public works teams are fully equipped and ready to respond. “All of our equipment is ready to go,” Johnson said. “We are prepared with 500 pounds of salt, our light towers are ready, and we’ve dug sand in the event it is needed. Our crews will also be prepared to remove any downed trees to keep roadways as safe and accessible as possible.”
Residents are reminded to report downed trees or other non-emergency situations by calling the appropriate non-emergency number at (803) 245-3000. Please dial 911 only for emergencies.
County officials strongly encourage residents to take proactive steps to prepare, including:
- Fully charging cell phones and other battery-powered devices
- Having plenty of blankets and extra batteries on hand
- Monitoring official county communication channels for updates
- Checking on neighbors, particularly seniors and those with special needs
- Bringing pets indoors during periods of extreme weather
For the most up-to-date information and potential closings, residents should continue to follow Bamberg County Government on Facebook or visit www.bambergcounty.sc.gov.
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For more information regarding this news release, please contact info@bambergcounty.sc.gov.