❄️ Winter Storm Recovery in Camden, SC: When “Looks Fine” Isn’t Actually Fine
This storm didn’t just bring snow — it brought structural stress.
Many Camden residents are assuming that if nothing broke during the storm, everything is fine now. That’s a dangerous assumption.
Cold causes materials to contract.
When temperatures rise, they expand — and that’s when failures happen.
The Freeze–Thaw Effect (Why Damage Shows Up Late)
After a winter storm:
Pipes thaw unevenly
Seals lose flexibility
Plastic components become brittle
Moisture trapped in vehicles refreezes overnight
This freeze–thaw cycle is what causes:
Burst pipes days later
Interior mold growth
Engine component cracks
Paint damage around door jambs
🚗 Why Washing or Adding Water Is Still Risky
Even if your driveway looks clear:
Water can refreeze inside door seams
Moisture can lock windows and handles
Residual ice inside panels can expand
For vehicles, cold damage isn’t visible immediately — it shows up when temperatures fluctuate.
If your car sat outside during the storm, assume:
Rubber seals are stiff
Fluids are still cold-soaked
Hidden moisture is present
When Is It Actually Safe?
You’re in the clear only when:
Nighttime temps stay above freezing
Daytime temps reach mid-40s or higher
No ice remains in shaded areas
Pipes flow normally without pressure surges
Until then, avoid:
❌ Washing vehicles
❌ Using exterior water lines
❌ Rapid temperature changes
Smart Winter Recovery = Slow Recovery
The biggest mistake after a storm isn’t doing nothing — it’s doing too much too fast.
Camden doesn’t get storms like this often, which means our homes, vehicles, and infrastructure need extra caution when they do happen.
Take it slow.
Let everything thaw fully.
Then resume normal routines safely.
