Your Southern Winter Storm Checklist: What Families Recommend

Why Prepare Anyway?

Southern storms, as we have all learned the hard way over the last couple of years, can be unpredictable. Winter storms are no exception. No matter how long you’ve lived in the south, by now you’ve likely noticed we don’t get a whole lot of actual winter weather. And, as such, we don’t really have the tools to deal with it. Does the county even have a snow plow? Probably. Maybe 1 or 2.

The other part about winter storms in the south, is that being southern, we do retain some of our warmer air. And sometimes when moisture comes along and that warmer air and cold air mix in the right way, we get a little ugly baby called freezing rain. Falling through the layer of cold air so quickly it stays liquid, the freezing rain then becomes solid ice on contact with a surface- your car, sidewalk, driveway, power line or tree limb. Ice is HEAVY. And that, dear winter southerners is a how freezing rain causes power outages. Sometimes a lot of them, and sometimes for many days.

So, yes. Prepare. You’re not overreacting. What’s the worst thing that happens? You buy a few extra bags of cheese puffs?

Your Southern Winterstorm Checklist

Here’s a clear, family-friendly checklist to help you get ready before the snow and ice arrive. We’ve split it into two parts: things to do now and things to gather or check before the power goes out.

✅ Things To Do Before the Storm

These are the action steps locals recommend tackling before the snow hits.

• Fill up your car gas tanks and extra gas cans
• Test your generator and read the manual
• Place your generator at least 20 feet from any windows or doors
• Cover the generator from snow and ice (but never run it with the cover on)
• Detach outdoor hoses and cover spigots
• Fill bathtubs, sinks, and large containers with water for washing and flushing
• Do all laundry while you still have power
• Pre-cook meats like chicken or ground beef
• Make freezer meals (chili, baked ziti, etc.) that are easy to reheat
• Charge all phones, tablets, battery banks, and rechargeable lanterns
• Download movies, shows, audiobooks, and offline games
• Set up one warm room where the whole family can sleep
• Plan meals that can be cooked on a grill, fire, or Blackstone
• Fill propane tanks for your grill or outdoor heater
• Pack a go-bag with clothes, toiletries, and documents in case of emergency
• Cover outside stairs or your car with a tarp or blanket to prevent ice
• Stock coolers with ice if you’ll need cold food storage
• Locate your T-key and know how to shut off water at the meter in case of frozen pipes
• Shower before the storm while you have hot water

🧺 Things To Buy (Have on Hand)

These are the supplies Greenville families say help most during a winter storm—especially if the power goes out for a while.

Warmth and lighting

• Hand warmers
• Firewood and kindling
• Propane for your grill or heater
• Extra blankets and sleeping bags
• Thermal wear, cozy socks, and layered clothing
• Battery-powered lanterns and flashlights
• Extra batteries (all sizes)
• Solar lanterns or rechargeable LED bulbs
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio
• Candles and matches or lighters

Food and water

• Bottled water for drinking
• Non-perishable snacks and shelf-stable meals
• Paper plates, cups, napkins, and utensils
• Ice for coolers
• Caffeine (coffee, tea, sodas)
• Ibuprofen or other essentials
• Manual can opener
• Grill-safe cookware like cast iron or Dutch ovens
• Pet food
• Cheese puffs

Safety and extras

• Generator and long extension cords. Follow the manual.
• Generator cover (remember: don’t run it while covered)
• T-key to shut off water
• Spigot covers (or a towel)
• Sand, pool salt, or ice melt
• First aid kit
• Board games, puzzles, books, or card games
• Tent or fort blankets to make a cozy indoor camp
• Milk jug lantern trick: flashlight plus jug of water makes a great room light
• Fill Prescriptions

Final Tips from the Community

• Don’t wait until the last minute. Grocery stores and gas stations get hit hard.
• Use your generator safely. Always keep it far from doors and windows, and never run it inside a garage.
• Meal prep now. Having ready-to-heat meals makes a big difference when you’re low on power or energy.
• Download media before the internet goes out. Audiobooks are especially popular.

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Have a tip we missed? Drop it in the comments or message us on social media! We’re all about neighbors helping neighbors here in the Upstate.

Stay warm, stay safe, and take care of your people.