Staff reports

The last time southeast Georgia had measurable snow was in 2018. That storm, called “snowpacalypse” by some locals, left less than two inches of snow in Savannah, according to weather reports.

However, the winter storm of Jan. 21-22 doubled that with two to four inches of snow in Effingham County, according to the National Weather Service.

Effingham County Schools canceled school on a day-by-day basis from Tuesday Jan. 21 through Friday, Jan. 24. Most government buildings were open with limited hours, or closed entirely. Many businesses closed or had shortened hours during the week.

Law enforcement and emergency management officials encouraged people to stay home and off the roads due to icy, slippery conditions and to allow Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) snowplows to clear main roadways.

“If you don't have to be out on the roads, stay indoors. If we get the chance to see snow, enjoy it from the comfort of your home, windows or out in your yards,” Effingham County Sheriff Jimmy McDuffie posted on the ECSO Facebook page Jan. 21. “There's no need to be out siteseeing on the roads.”

Sheriff McDuffie also warned drivers about the potential for black ice forming on the roads during nighttime temperatures that dipped into the teens after the snow had stopped falling.

“Enjoy the rare weather for our area, but make sure you stay safe and off the roads,” Sheriff McDuffie’s post added.

With school canceled last week, kids did what kids do – played in the snow.