🚨 Is It Safe to Drive in Camden Right Now? Proceed With Caution.

Short answer: Use extreme caution — conditions are still unpredictable.

Even though the snow and ice appear to be melting, driving conditions in Camden remain dangerous in spots, especially this afternoon and evening.

What We’re Seeing on the Roads

Based on firsthand observation today:

  • ❄️ Ice-covered roads in shaded areas

  • 💧 Melted water pooling that refreezes quickly

  • 🛑 Delayed braking response — brakes needed to be pumped

  • ⏳ Longer stopping distances than normal

  • ⚠️ Slower reaction times even at low speeds

This is classic freeze–thaw road behavior, and it’s one of the most dangerous winter conditions because it doesn’t always look icy.

Why This Is Still Risky

When daytime temperatures rise:

  • Snow melts into water

  • That water spreads across pavement

  • As temps dip again (especially near sunset), it refreezes into black ice

Black ice is nearly invisible and often forms:

  • On bridges and overpasses

  • In shaded or wooded areas

  • Near intersections and stop signs

If You Must Drive

✔ Drive slower than usual
✔ Increase following distance
✔ Brake early and gently
✔ Avoid sudden turns or acceleration
✔ Be especially careful approaching stops

If your brakes feel different — trust that feeling and slow down.

If You Can Wait — Do It

If your trip isn’t essential:
➡️ Waiting a few more hours (or until temperatures stay well above freezing) is the safest option.

This storm may look “over,” but road conditions say otherwise.

Please be careful, be patient, and don’t let clear pavement fool you.

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❄️ Winter Storm Recovery in Camden, SC: When “Looks Fine” Isn’t Actually Fine