01/23/2026
Please stay weather aware this weekend.
Any updates to our hours of operation will be posted to our website, social media, voicemail, and WSOC-TV Charlotte.
CHESTER COUNTY SHERIFF MAX DORSEY ISSUES URGENT WARNING AHEAD OF MAJOR ICE STORM
Travel Strongly Discouraged After Noon on Saturday
Chester County Sheriff Max Dorsey is issuing an urgent advisory to all citizens regarding the severe winter storm forecast to impact our area beginning late tonight. The National Weather Service has upgraded our area to an Ice Storm Warning and has indicated the potential for "catastrophic" ice accumulation.
This weather event poses a significant threat to the power grid and travel safety within Chester County.
Preparations need to be made NOW! Citizens are urged to use the remaining hours today to finalize preparations.
By noon on Saturday, January 24, travel conditions are expected to deteriorate rapidly.
"This is not a standard snow event; we are facing a dangerous ice storm," said Sheriff Dorsey.
"The accumulation of ice forecast for our area is capable of causing widespread, long-duration power outages. I am asking every household to prepare to be self-sufficient for the next three to four days."
Critical Safety Advisories:
Stay Off the Roads: Effective 12:00 p.m. Saturday, all non-emergency travel should cease. Roads are expected to become glazed with ice and impassable. Vehicles on the roadway will impede the ability of emergency crews and power companies to respond.
Prepare for Extended Outages: Residents should prepare for the possibility of losing power for several days. Ensure you have flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, and water.
Heat Safety: Have a plan to stay warm and dry if the power fails. If using alternative heating sources (generators, kerosene heaters, fireplaces), ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning. Generators must be operated outdoors only.
Protect Vulnerable Populations & Pets: Please check on elderly neighbors and those with medical needs today. Ensure all pets are brought indoors or have adequate, dry shelter and access to unfrozen water.
Emergency Response Delays: Citizens should be aware that response times for law enforcement, EMS, and fire services may be delayed due to treacherous road conditions and downed trees.
"The Sheriff’s Office is ready to respond to calls for service, but we need your help to keep our community safe," Sheriff Dorsey added. "The best way you can help first responders this weekend is to stay home, stay warm, and look out for your neighbors."
The Chester County Sheriff’s Office will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.