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Conway declares localized state of emergency; public safety moves to readiness for winter storm
Summary
Mayor executed a localized state of emergency Jan. 21 as Conway prepared for a winter storm. Emergency operations are on a standby posture and city offices are likely to close; the public was warned about expected snow and sub‑20°F temperatures.
The City of Conway executed a localized state of emergency on Jan. 21 as staff prepared for an approaching winter storm.
City Administrator reported the mayor had signed the declaration earlier in the day; Emergency Operations is in a readiness posture (OpCon 2). Conway Public Safety Chief Lee Hendrick briefed council that forecasts called for 2–6 inches of snow in the area (updates varied between 2–6 and 3–5 inches) and that sleet on the coast could reduce accumulations. Temperatures were expected to fall into the mid‑teens (about 17°F) the following night, raising concern about freezing water mains and prolonged road icing once thawing begins.
Chief Hendrick said public safety and utility crews are on standby, with works, beautification and utility departments prepared to respond to road conditions and potential water‑main ruptures. The South Carolina Department of Transportation had pretreated major state roadways into Conway; the city is responsible for secondary streets and downtown routes. The chief said the EOC would remain on readiness and could be staffed if conditions deteriorate.
City Administrator said city offices were likely to close the following day in the interest of public safety. The council did not take a formal vote; staff said they would activate additional staffing and operations if needed without further council action.
