Patchy Dense Fog Warning Issued for South Carolina; Aiken County Schools Enforce New Cell Phone Policy

Patchy Dense Fog Warning in South Carolina

Good morning, South Carolina! If you’re stepping outside today or planning to hit the road, you might want to be a little extra cautious. A special weather statement has been issued due to patchy dense fog affecting visibility in some areas.

What’s Happening?

It seems like last night’s rain has left us with some lingering fog, particularly in the spots from the Lakelands to the Catawba River. Visibility is down to less than half a mile in certain areas, so it’s vital to drive carefully. You might experience some rapid changes in how clearly you can see ahead of you.

Driving Tips

Here’s a little advice for those of you hitting the roads this morning:

• Slow down! Take your time while driving. Rushing is the last thing you want to do in foggy conditions.
• Use your low-beam headlights. High beams can reflect off the fog and make it harder to see.
• Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you. Leave extra space between vehicles to give yourself time to react if conditions change.

Fortunately, this patchy fog is expected to become less dense as the sun rises, and its effects should dissipate by 8 AM. So, hang in there, folks! Relief is just around the corner.

Today’s Weather Overview

Expect a mix of clouds and sunshine throughout the day. The high for today is a comfortable 64°F, with a light breeze coming in from the northeast at about 5 to 10 mph. Tonight, temperatures will drop to a chilly 46°F, and those light winds will continue. Looks like we might need to bundle up a bit as we head into the evening!

School District Cell Phone Policy Update

Aiken County School District will have to follow stricter rules regarding cell phone usage during school hours.

The New Policy

Students can still bring their phones to school, but they must keep them turned off and out of sight for the entirety of the school day, which includes lunch and any non-instructional time. Moreover, devices like smartwatches and AirPods are off-limits. Superintendent Dr. Corey Murphy has made it clear that this is all about creating a more effective learning environment. He mentioned that other districts with similar policies have seen positive results.

Consequences for Violations

If students violate this rule, the consequences will be pretty straightforward:

• First offense: Up to one day of in-school suspension.
• Second offense: Up to three days of in-school suspension.
• Third offense: This could lead to up to three days of out-of-school suspension accompanied by a behavior contract.

Dr. Murphy suggests that students and their families should take the time to familiarize themselves with the new policy to ensure a smooth transition come January.

Final Thoughts

So whether you’re driving on foggy roads or preparing for a shift in school regulations, stay safe and informed. Here’s wishing you a wonderful day ahead!