The Grice Connect team is monitoring the potential for winter weather next week, beginning on January 20, 2025.
Statesboro area residents should prepare for the possibility of winter weather next week, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Charleston.
While specifics remain uncertain, a cold air mass and potential precipitation are expected to move into the area as early as Monday night and continue through Wednesday morning.
"Model guidance continues to display significant differences regarding timing and potential impacts," the NWS stated in its latest briefing. "Numerous scenarios remain on the table, with possible outcomes covering the spectrum from widespread significant winter weather to little or no precipitation at all."
Despite the uncertainty, several key messages have been issued:
- Widespread Precipitation Possible: Most models suggest widespread precipitation will impact the region mid-week.
- Frigid Temperatures Expected: A very cold air mass is forecast, with wind chills potentially dropping into the 10-20 degree range by mid-week. Cold Weather Advisories are likely.
- Winter Weather a Concern: While the type and amount of precipitation are still unclear, the possibility of snow and freezing rain exists. The Winter Storm Severity Index (WSSI) currently indicates a 30-50% chance of minor impacts (minor accumulations of snow/ice that could affect travel) and a 20-30% chance of moderate impacts (increased risk to lives and property).
- Too Early for Details: Specific details such as precipitation types, amounts, timing, and precise locations impacted are not yet available.
The region is now included in the Weather Prediction Center's (WPC) day 6 probabilistic winter weather forecast graphic, which highlights the potential for frozen/freezing precipitation.
The NWS emphasizes that it is crucial for residents to stay informed. Because model forecasts are varying significantly from run to run, relying on single model outputs is discouraged.
"At this stage, it is too early to determine specific details," the NWS stated. "However, accumulating snow and freezing rain probabilities are trending higher."
Bulloch County VOAD is working with Bulloch County EMA to open a warming shelter if needed. Continue to monitor Bulloch County Public Safety and EMA and Bulloch VOAD facebook pages for updates on warming shelters.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local news and weather reports for updates as the forecast becomes clearer in the coming days.
Next update
The Grice Connect team will continue monitoring weather conditions throughout the weekend. Our next update will be at 6:00 PM Friday, January 17, 2024.
Click here for current weather from NWS Charleston
Code Red Alert
The City of Statesboro and Bulloch County announce a partnership to implement the CodeRED system, a high-speed emergency notification service provided by OnSolve, based in Ormond Beach, Florida. Public safety officials across the United States have credited CodeRED notifications for saving lives, including locating missing children, apprehending wanted criminals, and issuing timely evacuations. Click here to add this to your phone now.
Be Alert
Be ready to take action should severe weather develop. Stay tuned to NOAA Weather Radio, Grice Connect, TV or your local news source for the latest information from the National Weather Service.
Click here for updated weather information throughout the day.
