News Release

Hilton Head Island Town Hall to Close at 3 pm Friday, January 21

January 21, 2022

Due to the inclement weather forecast, the Town of Hilton Head Island administrative offices will close at 3 p.m. today, Friday, January 21.

Town Fire Rescue services will remain available.

Additionally, the Beaufort County Convenience Center (Hilton Head Island Solid Waste & Recycling Center) on Summit Drive closed at noon today and will reopen at noon on Saturday, January 22.

According to the National Weather Service, Beaufort County may experience rain and dropping temperatures. Rain will transition to freezing rain Friday through early Saturday morning across southeast South Carolina with ice accumulations. Bridges and overpasses may become icy and dangerous. Please use caution and heed any warnings to stay off the roads.

The South Carolina Emergency Management Division encourages everyone in the state to be prepared for below freezing conditions during and after this weekend’s winter storm.

South Carolinians unaccustomed to dealing with the life-threatening aspects of severe cold should remember to keep exposure to cold weather to a minimum. Frostbite is harmful and painful. Hypothermia, or low body temperature, can be lethal, and it is particularly hard on infants and the elderly. When the weather turns dangerously cold, don't go outdoors unless you have to. If you must go out, dress in layers and cover your ears, mouth, head and hands. Remember, wind dramatically increases the effects of cold temperatures by increasing the "wind chill factor."

As temperatures remain below freezing, remember the following:

• Watch for signs of frostbite such as the loss of feeling and white or pale appearance in extremities such as finger, toes, ear lobes and the tip of your nose.

• Keep dry. To prevent loss of body heat, change wet clothing frequently because wet clothing loses all of its insulating value and transmits heat rapidly.

• Be aware of possible carbon monoxide poisoning, electric shock and fire if using alternative sources for electricity, heating or cooking. (WARNING: Never burn charcoal briquettes or run a generator indoors. Do not leave a fire or candles unattended.)

• Remember the usual emergency supplies: a flashlight and batteries, a battery-powered radio, extra non-perishable food and water, extra medicines and baby items, additional firewood, and first-aid supplies.

• Freezing temperatures can burst water pipes in homes that lack heat or proper insulation. Wrap exposed pipes or take other measures to insulate them from the cold.

• Prepare a place indoors for pets. Ensure horses and other livestock have access to potable water (not frozen) and adequate feed.

• Check on elderly and at-risk neighbors and relatives due to the increased potential for power outages and cold temperatures.

• Be aware potential ice patches on roadways and sidewalks. Limit travel if possible. Areas like bridges and overpasses will freeze first before the roads. Check road conditions via scdot.org and give yourself plenty of time to drive safely to your destination.

• Heed any warnings to stay off the roads.