Residents of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, are bracing for a potential snowstorm, with up to 12 inches of accumulation possible. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch and an extreme cold watch for Horry County and surrounding areas. Forecasters are predicting single-digit wind chills over the weekend, making it a rare weather event for the Carolinas.

The unusual weather is due to a combination of moisture and freezing temperatures, a setup rarely seen in the region during winter. The snow is expected to be dry and powdery, creating hazardous travel conditions, especially with strong winds. Travel will be very dangerous from Saturday evening into Monday morning, according to the weather service.

Meteorologist Ian Boatman described the event as “fascinating” and “rare.” The exact amount of snowfall remains uncertain, with predictions ranging from 2 to 12 inches. The amount of dry air moving into the area over the weekend will influence the final totals. The bulk of the snow is expected late Saturday into Sunday morning.

Low-lying roads may experience flooding during high tide, and hazardous surf conditions are also expected. Authorities recommend avoiding travel if possible. The event is a reminder of the unpredictable nature of weather and the importance of preparing for extreme conditions, even in locations not accustomed to snow.