Rock Hill is now under an ice storm warning. Here’s what to expect from it next
Despite a cold but dry morning Saturday across the Rock Hill region, weather forecasters say it’s time to brace for a winter storm.
An ice storm warning began at 1 p.m. for a multi-state area that includes York, Lancaster and Chester counties. It’ll be in place until 1 p.m. Monday, though the weather is expected to remain cold afterward causing lingering problems, according to the National Weather Service.
“Significant ice accumulation on power lines and tree limbs may cause widespread and long-lasting power outages,” the ice storm warning said. “Trees and large limbs could fall on structures, posing threat to life and property.”
The weather service urges people not to travel unless necessary, and to take emergency items with them if they go since they could get stuck on icy roads. Ice is expected to accumulate rapidly tonight, and into Sunday evening.
“Ice and snow covered roadways will become treacherous and impassable,” the warning said. “The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute.”
York and Chester counties are part of a 23-county stretch across the Carolinas and northeast Georgia where damaging icing is expected, with up to an inch of snow and sleet. Half to three-quarters of an inch of ice are forecast, too. Higher amounts are possible across the South Carolina foothills.
Freezing rain and sleet are expected in Rock Hill tonight, with patchy fog between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. The low is 21 degrees. Winds are expected at 18 mph, with a 100% chance of precipitation.
Sunday will bring more freezing rain, possibly with sleet, on Sunday, according to the weather service. Patchy fog is expected from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a daily high of 32 degrees. Wind gusts could reach 18 mph. There’s again a 100% chance of precipitation.
Sunday night has a low of 28 degrees, with a 100% chance of precipitation. Rain or freezing rain is forecast through the early morning hours.
Unlike York and Chester counties that get forecasts from an office in Greer, Lancaster County gets its forecasts from Columbia. Lancaster County is part of a six-county ice storm warning where snow and sleet of up to 1 inch are expected, with ice accumulation up to half an inch. Recommendations for the Lancaster County ice storm warning are similar, according to the weather service.
“Travel is strongly discouraged,” it said. “If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Prepare for possible power outages.”
This story is developing and will be updated.
This story was originally published January 24, 2026 at 1:32 PM.