UPDATED: Winter Storm Fern: Lexington County predicted to start seeing effects Saturday evening

Winter Storm Fern is approaching the Midlands, and as of now, the National Weather Service Forecast predicts sleet and freezing rain to start on Saturday evening in Lexington County.

Freezing rain is expected to continue after midnight, with lows in the 20s. Chances of precipitation on Saturday night are near 100% as of Friday afternoon's forecast.

Predictions for Sunday seem to contain the worst of what Winter Storm Fern has for the Lexington County area. Freezing rain is likely from the morning until the afternoon on Sunday, with high chances of precipitation continuing through Sunday night.

While daytime on Monday is predicted to be sunny with temperatures in the lower 40s, Monday night temperatures are expected to drop dramatically, with lows around 15 degrees.

The National Weather Service says a winter storm watch is in effect from Saturday afternoon through Monday afternoon for this area of the state.

This winter storm watch means you should look out for ice accumulations between one-quarter and one-half-an-inch, as well as sleet and snow, with accumulations of up to half-an-inch.

“Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous,” according to the National Weather Service station in Columbia. “Significant ice accumulation on power lines and tree limbs may cause widespread and long-lasting power outages. Power outages and tree damage are likely due to the ice. Travel could be nearly impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute.”

The Lexington County Sheriff’s Department encourages you to prepare now.

“Stock up on non-perishable food and water for at least 3 days. Don't forget a manual can opener; Take inventory of warm clothing and blankets to keep your family cozy; Ensure everyone in the household knows where the first aid kit is; Check your battery supply for cell phones, flashlights, and other essentials. Recharge everything,” a Facebook post from the department read.

The Town of Lexington posted a reminder to turn off irrigation systems that may put water onto the roadway in order to prevent ice buildup on residential roadways as temperatures drop.

Keep track of impacts to Lexington County roads through this link, provided by the county: https://lexco-gis.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/2e561c02866c41489215158c41015db3.

As of this publication, there are no road closures, according to the link.