Do You Have a Case?
Free Consultation. No Obligation. Completely Confidential
We guarantee 100% privacy. Your information will NOT be shared.
Eminent Domain Attorneys in Lexington, SC
Most people who buy a home and the land it sits on expect that it will be theirs for as long as they choose to reside there. They may choose to pass that home and land along to children or other family members once they pass. It's a very common scenario, but for some residents of Charleston County, it may not be possible due to a highway expansion. Once the expansion starts, these residents could actually lose their land. And while you wouldn't think such an action would be legal in America, truth is often stranger than fiction.
The newly proposed expansion on Highway 41 will expand the highway to two lanes, increasing it to a total of four lanes on most of the roadway and from two to three lanes near the Phillips Community. The project would also start construction of Laurel Hill Parkway - a two-lane road that intersects through the outskirts of Laurel Hill County Park. For the Phillips Community, which sits adjacent to the highway, it could mean the loss of residents' homes and land that have been in their families for generations.
So, what can people like those in the Phillips Community do? They don't want to lose their homes or bear the burden of significantly more traffic around them. On their own, the options can be dour. But with the help of eminent domain attorneys in Lexington, SC, these families can receive the just compensation they deserve.
Understanding Eminent Domain in South Carolina
Remember that when you purchase or are given a plot of land, your property rights aren't as absolute as you may think. According to the United States Constitution, the government has the authority to take your property under specific circumstances. Essentially, your property rights are not absolute.
What's interesting is that the government's ability to take your property is actually stated in the Constitution. Even though the Constitution states that "private property shall not be taken for public use without just compensation," in essence, this means the government can take your property if the intended use is valid and they compensate you fairly. The Supreme Court upheld this view in 1876, interpreting that the government had this power based on the Constitution. Eminent domain was frequently used during the construction of the nation's railroad system, often without sufficient limitations on the government.
Unfortunately, many South Carolina residents end up being on the wrong end of the cost-benefit analysis when it comes to fair compensation. That's why, if the government is trying to take your land, it's so important to get in touch with eminent domain attorneys in Lexington, SC, as soon as possible. That way, you have someone by your side for any legal proceedings or disputes. At Lauren Taylor Law, we have a proven track record of achieving positive outcomes for our clients in cases where the government has failed to fulfill its legal responsibilities.
- How Can the Government Take Your Property?
- The Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
- What Constitutes "Public Use" of Your Land in South Carolina?
- Partial and Easement Taking of Your Land in South Carolina
- Under Eminent Domain, You Must Be Paid Fair Market Value
- How the Government Condemns Your Land with Its Actions
- What Should You Do if Your Land Can Be Taken by the Government?
- Top 3 Reasons to Hire an Eminent Domain Lawyer in South Carolina
- Eminent Domain Attorneys in Lexington, SC Fighting for Your Rights
How Can the Government Take Your Property?
There are typically two different ways that the government may take your property. Those include:
- Inverse Condemnation: This happens when you must take action and declare that your property or land was taken (even though you may still own it) so that you may receive compensation.
- Directly: This happens when the government takes explicit action to own your property.
In both scenarios, you could be forced into litigation in order to protect your rights, even though you had no plans on doing so.
The Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys in Lexington, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
Limits to Eminent Domain in South Carolina
While the government can use its power to take your land, there are limits on its ability to do so. Namely:
- The government must pay landowners a fair market price for their property.
- The land the government takes must be for public use.
As such, there are two reasons why you can sue the government as part of an eminent domain case:
- The government won't compensate you fairly for your property.
- The government is taking your land but not for public use.
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
The Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
When the government wants to acquire your land, they will typically begin by making a formal offer to buy your property. At this point, you may have the opportunity to negotiate with them. If you decide that selling your property is the best option, it's important to work towards reaching an agreement with the government on the sale price. This isn't always a straightforward process because the government may not be willing to offer you a fair amount.
To determine the price of your property, the government will have their appraiser assess the value of the property. This appraiser functions much like an adjuster for an insurance company, many of whom offer lowball pricing. You should know that you have the right to hire your own appraiser to determine an independent valuation. This is often the best course of action if you're considering selling to the government.
If you choose not to sell to the government, they may proceed by filing a lawsuit to initiate the condemnation process. At this point, you can challenge the taking itself by working with eminent domain attorneys in Lexington, SC. You can also ask the court to determine the fair market value of the property if the government's valuation is lower than what you believe is fair.
Limits to Eminent Domain in South Carolina
While the government can use its power to take your land, there are limits on its ability to do so. Namely:
- The government must pay landowners a fair market price for their property.
- The land the government takes must be for public use.
As such, there are two reasons why you can sue the government as part of an eminent domain case:
- The government won't compensate you fairly for your property.
- The government is taking your land but not for public use.
Given the history of these cases, you can never trust the government to act fairly. Why? Because local officials often have interests in such matters, and your rights are getting in their way. Sometimes, the only viable route you have is to lawyer up and fight the case in court.
What Constitutes "Public Use" of Your Land in South Carolina?
Landowners commonly contest whether the taking is genuinely for public use. There are constraints on the government's actions and the reasons for which they can seize your land. The interpretation of these terms by the courts often favors the government. "Public use" does not simply mean that your property would be open to the general public. Instead, the term is more akin to "for the benefit of the public."
Historically, the government expropriated private lands for projects such as bridges and highways. Numerous legal battles arose during the period when the nation was constructing its railroad system. In these instances, the courts typically interpreted "public use" more broadly.
Some of the most common reasons why government landtaking is upheld include the building of structures like:
- Pipelines
- Highways
- Public Buildings
- Utilities
- Railroads and Transit Lines
These are the more "traditional" uses of eminent domain, where the public use would be less in question. However, the law also permits certain utilities to wield the power of eminent domain. For instance, in a recent case in South Carolina, Dominion Energy was granted the authority to acquire homes in order to construct an energy pipeline.
Regrettably, governments have historically tended to misuse this authority, and some courts have even condoned such actions. As an example, courts in Toledo, Ohio, allowed 83 homes to be taken from residents in order to construct a manufacturing plant for Chrysler, which said the plant would create jobs for the public.
If the government is trying to take your land, you should never give up on your property. By working with eminent domain attorneys in Lexington, SC, you may be able to stop them by challenging the taking itself. You can also challenge the purpose of the taking and argue that the reason for "public use" is really for private use.
Partial and Easement Taking of Your Land in South Carolina
Many people worry about the government taking over their entire piece of land. However, in some cases, the government may not need all your property and might not want to compensate you for it. They may only require a portion of your land.
In such instances, the government not only has to pay you for the part of the land they are taking, but they also have to compensate for the decreased value of the remaining land that you still own. Additionally, the government may seek to obtain an easement on your land through eminent domain. This easement could be for utilities or access to another area. Once again, the government must compensate you for the land taken and for the reduction in value of the rest of your property.
Under Eminent Domain, You Must Be Paid Fair Market Value
In essence, fair market value represents the amount a willing buyer would offer to a seller for their property. While this concept seems straightforward, applying fair market value in reality can be quite challenging. In many instances, negotiating with the government may be necessary to receive proper compensation for your land. Just like any negotiator, the government typically begins with a low offer and anticipates a counteroffer from you to reach a mutual agreement. Rarely does the government present its best offer right from the start.
Several valuations may be considered to determine your property's fair market value:
The amount of income your property could have produced
Comparison of sales to other similar properties in the area that were recently sold (there could be disagreements pertaining to what is comparable)
The amount of money it would cost to replace your property (and the structures built on it) minus depreciation
In reality, during a trial, both you and the government would have valuation experts testify. First, you'd have to choose the relevant valuation, which the government might dispute. Then, you'd need to apply the appropriate valuation method. There might be a significant difference between your numbers and the government's.
However, even if you couldn't prevent the seizure of the property, many have successfully challenged the government's valuation of their property. Property owners have compelled the government to pay more, and our team of eminent domain attorneys in Lexington, SC, has represented many of them in the legal process over the years.
How the Government Condemns Your Land with Its Actions
- The government may not need to attempt to seize your land to potentially owe you money. There are situations where government actions could prevent you from using your land. In many ways, the government has the authority to dictate how you can use your property. They can enact laws and zoning regulations that limit your property usage. To constitute a regulatory taking, the government's actions must completely prevent you from using your land for any economic purpose.
- The government may have a valid justification for its regulations. However, when it comes to compensating you for your land, the government's intentions are irrelevant. What matters is the impact the regulation has on your land usage.
- In addition to regulatory taking, the government may take your land if its actions have caused damage to your property. For example, a neighboring construction project could have flooded your property. They might have trespassed on your land, either temporarily or permanently. This type of taking is referred to as a "de facto" taking, and the government still needs to compensate you when it happens.
For Any Help, Questions or Suggestions, Contact Us
What Should You Do if Your Land Can Be Taken by the Government?
Typically, you'll receive notice regarding the potential acquisition of your property through a letter. But if you're like the residents of the Phillips Community, you might have already heard murmurs that something might happen to your land. If you suspect or find out that the government plans to take your land through eminent domain, you need the help of seasoned eminent domain attorneys in Lexington, SC, right away.
The truth is that the government can be just as challenging to deal with as an insurance company. Despite your constitutional rights, they might try to conceal information or offer far less compensation than your property is worth.
In an eminent domain lawsuit, you're essentially challenging the government. While some courts might show some level of deference to the government, they are not given free rein to do as they please. It's within your rights to stand up and contest the government's actions if they violate your rights. But to fight back effectively, your best bet is to work with an eminent domain lawyer from Lauren Taylor Law.
Your attorney will assess the best legal approach for your case, which could involve suing the government or vigorously defending against their lawsuit. You could also negotiate compensation, either before or after the case goes to court.
Top 3 Reasons to Hire an Eminent Domain Lawyer in South Carolina
If you receive notice that your property is being targeted for eminent domain action, also known as condemnation, it's important to seek advice from an eminent domain attorney. Many people won't reach out to a lawyer when dealing with this kind of legal issue because they:
- Mistakenly believe that the government has their best interests at heart and will actually offer fair compensation
- Feel intimidated and believe they must cooperate
- Believe that the taking of their land is really for "public good."
Unfortunately, these assumptions are rarely, if ever, true. In fact, you may actually be more vulnerable and at risk than you originally thought. This misunderstanding illustrates exactly why you should enlist the services of a reputable eminent domain attorney. With the assistance of a legal expert who is well-versed in South Carolina eminent domain law, property owners can safeguard their rights and secure maximum compensation.
Here are the top three ways an eminent domain lawyer can help:
1. Help You Get Just Compensation
It's important to keep in mind that the initial offer from the government for your property is often the lowest amount they think they can get away with. This rarely represents the full and fair compensation you deserve. An attorney has the expertise and resources to ensure that you receive proper compensation for the value of your property, including relocation expenses and more.
In some instances, an eminent domain attorney may be able to secure a higher amount than what the government is proposing. The eminent domain lawyers at Lauren Taylor Law are dedicated to safeguarding your rights and protecting your property
2. Help You Understand Your Rights
Government agencies are not permitted to simply take any property they desire. According to the 5th Amendment, they must prove that the condemnation is genuinely for public use and meets other specific criteria. You have the right to demand that the state fulfill these criteria before seizing your property. Plus, if only a portion of your property is necessary to complete the project, you have the right to safeguard the ownership of the remaining part of your property.
3. Provide Guidance Through the Complicated Process of Eminent Domain in South Carolina
Eminent domain cases and their related laws can be quite intricate and overwhelming for the average property owner. You shouldn't be expected to grasp all the technical terms, and you certainly shouldn't be penalized for not fully understanding the process. That's why having an experienced eminent domain lawyer by your side is valuable on many levels. A skilled eminent domain attorney will assist you through each stage in plain language that you can grasp. With an eminent domain attorney advocating for you throughout your case to safeguard your rights, you stand a better chance of receiving the compensation you rightfully deserve.
Divorce Attorney for Shardae Brown
Criminal Defense Lawyer for Janelle Morrison
Child Support Lawyer for Ronnie Wells
Child Custody Attorney for Emily
Personal Injury Lawyer for Ron Hanna
Family Law for William Breen
Attorney for B P
Estate Planning for Janice Ford
Sexual Harassment Attorney for Mercedes Nicole
Lawyer for Terresa Clopton
Divorce Attorney for Amy Brooks
Criminal Defense Lawyer for Jessica Ford
Child Support Lawyer for Haley Marie
Child Custody Attorney for Melanie Hood
Personal Injury Lawyer for Kie Williams
Family Law for Megan Brent
Attorney for Cameron Fishburne
Estate Planning for Ariane Cossette
Sexual Harassment Attorney for Clayton Burnette
Lawyer for Julianna Weeks
Divorce Attorney for Monica “Kincaid” Moore
Criminal Defense Lawyer for Robin Bush
Child Support Lawyer for Nicole Sinnigen
Child Custody Attorney for Amanda Davidson
Personal Injury Lawyer for Linda Birnbaum
Eminent Domain Attorneys in Lexington, SC Fighting for Your Rights
843-790-9009If the government takes your property or prevents you from using it, you have the right to file a lawsuit. The law provides you with the opportunity to stand on equal ground with our government, allowing your lawyer to advocate for your rights in court.
At Lauren Taylor Law, our eminent domain lawyers step in so you don't get pushed around. Our goal is to fight the government on your behalf, so you get the compensation you deserve. Contact our office today to learn more about eminent domain in South Carolina and how our firm can help.
Latest News in Lexington, SC
Did early morning rumbling wake you up? It was an earthquake near Lake Murray
Noah Feit March 19https://www.thestate.com/news/local/environment/article315110822.html
While most of South Carolina was sleeping early Thursday morning the latest earthquake to hit the Columbia area was recorded.A 2.1 magnitude earthquake was confirmed near Lake Murray, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The seismic activity hit at 2:32 a.m. in a part of Lake Murray that’s near the line separating Richland and Lexington counties, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division said.The tremors were recorded about 5.5 miles beneath the surface of the ground, USGS data shows.Recent earthquakes...
While most of South Carolina was sleeping early Thursday morning the latest earthquake to hit the Columbia area was recorded.
A 2.1 magnitude earthquake was confirmed near Lake Murray, according to the U.S. Geological Survey. The seismic activity hit at 2:32 a.m. in a part of Lake Murray that’s near the line separating Richland and Lexington counties, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division said.
The tremors were recorded about 5.5 miles beneath the surface of the ground, USGS data shows.
Recent earthquakes
The recent seismic activity means that 14 earthquakes have been confirmed in South Carolina this year, according to the state’s Department of Natural Resources Geological Survey. The past six have all been in the Columbia area, near Lake Murray.
On March 13, a 2.0 magnitude earthquake hit off the South Carolina coast, but that was in the Atlantic Ocean, not the Palmetto State.
Prior to Thursday’s earthquake, the last one recorded in South Carolina was a 2.2 magnitude quake on March 1, according to the USGS.
Prior to this series of tremors in the Columbia area, there were six consecutive earthquakes recorded in the Lowcountry between Feb. 3 and 12, South Carolina DNR data shows.
There were 35 confirmed earthquakes in South Carolina in 2025.
In 2024, there were 30 earthquakes in the Palmetto State, after 28 quakes were recorded in 2023, South Carolina DNR records show.
History of earthquakes in SC
It had been uncommon for earthquakes to hit outside the Midlands area of the Palmetto State, specifically beyond Kershaw County, where 74 earthquakes have been confirmed since the end of June 2022, according to the South Carolina DNR.
That’s also where South Carolina’s most powerful recent earthquakes were recorded on June 29, 2022.
On that day, two earthquakes — one a 3.5 magnitude and the other 3.6 — were included in a flurry of tremors and aftershocks. Those were the two largest quakes to hit South Carolina in nearly a decade. A 4.1-magnitude quake struck McCormick County in 2014.
Anyone who felt tremors and shaking or heard rumbling from Thursday’s earthquake can report it to the USGS. Although the earthquake occurred when much of the population was sleeping, as of 7 a.m., at least 58 people reported experiencing the early-morning seismic activity.
The most recent earthquake means at least 181 have been detected in the Palmetto State since the start of 2022, according to South Carolina DNR. All but 59 of the quakes have been in the Midlands.
In all, 127 earthquakes have hit the Columbia area since a 3.3-magnitude quake was recorded Dec. 27, 2021, according to the DNR.
The S.C. Emergency Management Division said the majority of the recent earthquakes were classified as a micro quakes, according to the Modified Mercalli Intensity Scale.
No major damage or injuries have been reported from the recent seismic activity or any of the other recent quakes.
Earthquakes that register 2.5 magnitude or less often go unnoticed and are usually recorded only by a seismograph, according to Michigan Technological University. Any quake less than 5.5 magnitude is not likely to cause significant damage, the school said.
It had been typical for South Carolina to have between six and 10 earthquakes a year, the S.C. Geological Survey previously reported. There have been 195 earthquakes in South Carolina since Jan. 18, 2021, according to DNR. During a 2022 town hall to address the earthquakes, state geologist Scott Howard said as many as 200 smaller tremors might have gone unnoticed and unrecorded.
Reported earthquakes in SC 2025-26
| Jan. 8/Jenkinsville | 1.9 | 3.0 |
| Aug. 23/Coronaca | 2.9 | 6.8 |
| Aug. 23/Coronaca | 3.0 | 2.1 |
| Aug. 23/Coronaca | 2.5 | 1.3 |
| Aug. 23/Coronaca | 1.9 | 0.1 |
| Aug. 23/Coronaca | 2.0 | 0.3 |
| Aug. 25/Coronaca | 2.0 | 0.4 |
| Aug. 26/Coronaca | 2.4 | 0.3 |
| Aug. 27/Coronaca | 2.0 | 0.4 |
| Sept. 26/Coronaca | 2.2 | 5.6 |
| Sept. 29/Kershaw | 1.8 | 12.8 |
| Nov. 9/Centerville | 1.8 | 7.9 |
| Feb. 3/Centerville | 2.3 | 7.7 |
| Feb. 7/Centerville | 2.9 | 5.2 |
| Feb. 11/Centerville | 2.5 | 0.7 |
| Feb. 12/Centerville | 1.8 | 5.0 |
| Feb. 26/Lexington | 3.0 | 0.2 |
School closures/eLearning announced for Monday due to potential severe weather
Lee Williamshttps://www.abccolumbia.com/2026/03/15/schools-closures-elearning-announced-for-monday-due-to-potential-severe-weather/
COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — Midlands schools are announcing classes will be cancelled or online on Monday due to potential severe weather across communities.CALHOUN COUNTY:Today, March 16, 2026, all schools in the district will operate on an e-Learning Day.CLARENDON COUNTY:All classes will shift to e-Learning for Monday, March 16.FAIRFIELD COUNTY:Due to forecasts indicating a potentially significant severe weather threat for our area on Monday, March...
COLUMBIA, SC (WOLO) — Midlands schools are announcing classes will be cancelled or online on Monday due to potential severe weather across communities.
CALHOUN COUNTY:
Today, March 16, 2026, all schools in the district will operate on an e-Learning Day.
CLARENDON COUNTY:
All classes will shift to e-Learning for Monday, March 16.
FAIRFIELD COUNTY:
Due to forecasts indicating a potentially significant severe weather threat for our area on Monday, March 16, 2026, FCSD will be closed.
This will be a traditional school closure, and there will be no e-learning on Monday. The instructional day will be made up on Monday, May 25, 2026.
KERSHAW COUNTY:
Kershaw County School District is shifting to an e-Learning Day for Monday, March 16, as severe weather is forecasted for our area. All school buildings and offices will be closed. All Monday after school activities and sporting events are also cancelled.
LEXINGTON ONE:
Lexington One will switch to eLearning on Monday, March 16 due to the forecast for severe weather. All after-school events and activities are canceled and campuses are closed for the day.
The big picture: The National Weather Service is predicting widespread, significant severe weather on Monday. Damaging (60 mph) to destructive (75+ mph) wind gusts are expected, with tornadoes possible as well. Some strong tornadoes (EF2+) are possible. Current forecasts indicate that the main window for severe hazards is expected to be between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
What to know: To help your student with eLearning, click here to review the district’s eLearning guidelines and directions. Students will have five days to complete all eLearning assignments. Additional information will also be shared later today.
Note for employees: Employees should work from home, unless notified otherwise by your supervisor.
LEXINGTON TWO:
With weather forecasts calling for severe weather and high winds in the Midlands, and in an abundance of caution, Lexington Two will close all schools and offices on Monday, March 16.
All afternoon and evening activities are also canceled on Monday, including athletic events, extracurricular activities, after-school programs, and adult education classes.
The National Weather Service is predicting damaging to destructive winds, possibly as high as 60-75 mph, with the current timing anywhere between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. At this time, our area is at an enhanced risk for severe weather, with some parts of our forecast area expanded to a moderate risk. An enhanced risk is a 3/5 confidence level, and a moderate risk is a 4/5 confidence level.
We will communicate updates by Monday afternoon on the status of the school day for Tuesday, March 17.
We appreciate your understanding and support, as we prioritize the safety of our students, employees, and families.
LEXINGTON THREE:
Due to the latest forecasted severe weather expected to impact the Midlands of South Carolina on Monday, March 16th, Lexington County School District Three will shift to an eLearning Day. The primary threat on Monday is damaging winds, with gusts up to 75 miles per hour possible. The National Weather Service is predicting “high-risk” weather, with dangerous tornadoes possible between 11 AM and 3 PM, directly affecting Lexington Three’s regular school day. Therefore we will shift to an eLearning Day on Monday, March 16th.
There will be no work for students to do on Monday, March 16th. Instead, students will receive their make-up eLearning assignments on Tuesday, March 17th. Students will have the option to complete their eLearning assignments on their own time. All assignments will be due by no later than Thursday, April 2nd.
All after-school events including sports practices, sports games, meetings, adult education classes, etc. scheduled for Monday, March 16th are cancelled.
LEXINGTON-RICHLAND 5:
No school for teachers + students Monday, March 16.
NEWBERRY COUNTY:
Due to the predictions by the Weather Service for high winds and possible tornado activity during the morning commute and into the morning, the School District of Newberry County will be closed Monday. Concerns are for buses in the predicted winds.
ORANGEBURG COUNTY:
Orangeburg County School District (OCSD) officials are closely monitoring weather conditions expected to impact Orangeburg County. Due to forecasted severe wind conditions expected across Orangeburg County (March 16, 2026), Orangeburg County School District will observe an eLearning Day.
RICHLAND ONE:
According to Ilyssa Weiner with Richland One:
Due to the evolving forecast for severe weather and out of an abundance of caution, all Richland One schools and administrative offices will be closed Monday, March 16, 2026. Monday will not be an e-learning day.
All afterschool programs, activities and events that were scheduled for Monday, including athletics games and practices, are canceled. The Richland One Rising Stars Awards Ceremony that was scheduled for Monday evening at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center is canceled.
The safety of our students and staff is always the primary consideration in deciding whether to change normal operations and schedules due to weather-related factors. The latest weather forecast calls for conditions during the day Monday that could produce tornadoes and high wind gusts of 40 miles per hour or more that would pose hazardous travel conditions for school buses and other vehicles on the roads.
RICHLAND TWO:
Due to forecasted severe storms and high winds, there will be no school tomorrow, Monday, March 16, 2026. All district buildings and offices will be closed.
SUMTER COUNTY:
Due to severe weather and hazardous winds, Monday, March 16, 2026, will be an eLearning day for all students and staff.
—————————————————————————————
This list will be updated as more schools’ information becomes available.
SCHOOL CLOSURES: Midlands school changes for potential severe weather on Monday
WIS News 10 Staffhttps://www.wistv.com/2026/03/15/first-alert-midlands-school-changes-potential-severe-weather-monday/
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Several Midlands school districts have announced school closures and eLearning days for Monday due to potential severe weather across the region.CALHOUN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLSCalhoun County Public Schools will have an e-learning day on Monday.CLARENDON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICTMonday, March 16, 2026, will be an eLearning day for all students and staff. All schools and district offices will be closed.All activities, including athletic events and field trips, are canceled....
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Several Midlands school districts have announced school closures and eLearning days for Monday due to potential severe weather across the region.
CALHOUN COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Calhoun County Public Schools will have an e-learning day on Monday.
CLARENDON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Monday, March 16, 2026, will be an eLearning day for all students and staff. All schools and district offices will be closed.
All activities, including athletic events and field trips, are canceled.
FAIRFIELD COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Fairfield County School District (FCSD) will be closed on Monday.
This will be a traditional school closure, and there will be no e-learning on Monday. The instructional day will be made up on Monday, May 25, 2026.
LEXINGTON 3
Lexington County School District Three announced it will shift to an eLearning Day due to potential severe weather on Monday.
The district says there will be no work for students to do on Monday. Instead, students will receive their make-up eLearning assignments on Tuesday, March 17th. Students will have the option to complete their eLearning assignments on their own time. All assignments will be due by no later than Thursday, April 2nd.
All after-school events, including sports practices, sports games, meetings, adult education classes, etc., scheduled for Monday, March 16th, are cancelled.
LEXINGTON ONE
Lexington One is switching to eLearning on Monday, March 16, 2026
All after-school events and activities are canceled, and campuses are also closed for the day.
You can click here to review the district’s eLearning guidelines and directions.
LEXINGTON TWO
Lexington Two is closing all offices and schools on Monday, March 16.
All afternoon and evening activities are also canceled on Monday, including athletic events, extracurricular activities, after-school programs, and adult education classes.
DISTRICT 5 OF LEXINGTON AND RICHLAND COUNTIES
LR5 will not have school due to previous scheduling.
ORANGEBURG COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Orangeburg County School District will observe an eLearning Day. All after-school programs, extracurricular activities, athletic practices, and games scheduled for tomorrow are canceled due to the expected weather conditions.
LEE COUNTY
Lee County School District has designated Monday, March 16, 2026, as an eLearning Day.
KERSHAW COUNTY
Kershaw County School District is shifting to an e-Learning Day for Monday. All Monday after-school activities and sporting events are also cancelled.
NEWBERRY COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT
Due to predicted severe weather for Monday, the School District of Newberry County will close all schools and offices on Monday, March 16.
RICHLAND ONE
All Richland One schools and administrative offices will be closed on Monday, March 16, 2026. Monday will not be an e-learning day.
RICHLAND TWO
School in Richland Two is canceled on Monday, March 16, due to severe weather.
All out-of-district field studies are canceled out of caution.
SUMTER SCHOOL DISTRICT
Due to severe weather and hazardous winds, Monday, March 16, 2026, will be an eLearning day for all students and staff.
VORHEES UNIVERSITY
Voorhees University will close its campus on Monday, March 16, 2026. Only essential personnel should report to campus.
WIS will update this article with more school changes once announced.
Feel more informed, prepared, and connected with WIS. For more free content like this, subscribe to our , and . Have feedback that can help us improve? .
Central South Carolina Hit with Multiple Tornado Warnings
FITSNewsMarch 12https://www.fitsnews.com/2026/03/12/central-south-carolina-hit-with-multiple-tornado-warnings/
Residents of central South Carolina were hit with multiple tornado warnings on Thursday morning (March 12, 2026) as a major storm front moved through the Midlands region of the state.Beginning at approximately 9:21 a.m. EDT, the Columbia, S.C. branch of the National Weather Service (NWS) began issuing tornado warnings for broad swaths of the region – including Lexington and Saluda counties south of Lake Murray and shortly thereafter for several heavily populated regions in Lexington and Richland counties north of the lake....
Residents of central South Carolina were hit with multiple tornado warnings on Thursday morning (March 12, 2026) as a major storm front moved through the Midlands region of the state.
Beginning at approximately 9:21 a.m. EDT, the Columbia, S.C. branch of the National Weather Service (NWS) began issuing tornado warnings for broad swaths of the region – including Lexington and Saluda counties south of Lake Murray and shortly thereafter for several heavily populated regions in Lexington and Richland counties north of the lake.
From 9:21 a.m. through 10:14 a.m., a total of six tornado warnings were issued for NWS Columbia’s coverage area – including warnings which encompassed Ballentine, Columbia, Gilbert and Irmo, S.C. At one point, nearly a quarter million Midlands residents were under a tornado warning.
While none of the dreaded funnel clouds appear to have touched down, the weather’s ominous turn was duly noted as cell phones across the region lit up with emergency warnings.
“(The) sky was green and got super dark really fast,” one Midlands resident wrote on X.
One weather watcher, Bethany Ouimette, was tracking traffic cameras operated by the S.C. Department of Transportation (SCDOT) when she observed an “intermittent funnel… coming and going.”
Multiple schools in the Midlands region instituted shelter in place protocols – while some schools actually evacuated students to more secure structures on campus. At the Target shopping center on Harbison Drive – a heavily trafficked retail area of northwest Columbia – shoppers were told to gather in the center of the store where they were asked to shelter in place for nearly an hour until the storm passed.
This is a developing story, please check back for updates…
is the founding editor of the news outlet you are currently reading. Prior to founding FITSNews, he served as press secretary to the governor of South Carolina. He lives in the Midlands region of the state with his wife and eight children.
Got something you’d like to say in response to one of our articles? Or an issue you’d like to address proactively? We have an open microphone policy! Submit your letter to the editor (or guest column) via email HERE. Got a tip for a story? CLICK HERE. Got a technical question or a glitch to report? CLICK HERE.
South Carolina schools begin announcing plans ahead of Monday severe weather.
Christopher Buchananhttps://www.wltx.com/article/news/local/south-carolina-school-schedules-severe-weather-monday-march-16/101-c94ca89f-c3b9-4621-9bde-e6d53d32a77c
With severe weather on the way, some schools are making changes to their schedules. We'll keep track of those changes here.COLUMBIA, S.C. — A severe storm is expected to bring heavy wind, rain and possible tornadoes to the South Carolina Midlands on Monday morning.As a result, some school districts are shifting their class schedules or moving to eLearning due to the storm's potential impact on their communities.Here's what we're hearing from each county.Aiken CountyAiken County schools will observe ...
With severe weather on the way, some schools are making changes to their schedules. We'll keep track of those changes here.
COLUMBIA, S.C. — A severe storm is expected to bring heavy wind, rain and possible tornadoes to the South Carolina Midlands on Monday morning.
As a result, some school districts are shifting their class schedules or moving to eLearning due to the storm's potential impact on their communities.
Here's what we're hearing from each county.
Aiken County
Aiken County schools will observe an eLearning Day on Monday due to forecasted severe weather, with employees working remotely and students having until March 27 to complete their assignments.
Calhoun County
Calhoun County Public Schools will have an eLearning Day on Monday due to forecast severe weather.
Clarendon County
Clarendon County Schools has announced that Monday will be an eLearning day due to expected severe weather. All schools and district offices will be closed. All activities are canceled. Assignments will be posted on Google Classroom. Students who face barriers to completing the assignments will be allowed additional time.
Fairfield County
Fairfield County School District will be closed on Monday due to forecast severe weather, with no eLearning. The missed instructional day will be made up on Monday, May 25.
Kershaw County
Kershaw County School District is shifting to an eLearning Day on Monday due to forecast severe weather, with all school buildings, offices, and afterschool activities closed or canceled. Middle and high school students will receive assignments in Canvas by 11 a.m., while elementary students will receive theirs on Tuesday. All students will have five school days to complete their work.
Lee County
Lee County School District has designated Monday as an eLearning Day due to forecast severe thunderstorms with high winds and heavy rainfall, and all staff members are expected to remain available during normal work hours.
Lexington One
Lexington County School District One is switching to eLearning on Monday, with campuses closed and all afterschool activities canceled due to a forecast of severe weather, including damaging winds and possible tornadoes. Employees are asked to work from home, and students will have five days to complete their eLearning assignments.
Lexington Two
Lexington Two will close all schools and offices on Monday due to forecast severe weather, with all afterschool and evening activities also canceled. The district will communicate updates by Monday afternoon regarding the status of school on Tuesday, March 17.
Lexington Three
Lexington County School District Three is switching to an eLearning Day on Monday due to forecasted severe weather. Students will have no work on Monday but will receive make-up eLearning assignments on Tuesday, with all work due by April 2. All afterschool events are canceled.
Lexington Four
Lexington Four schools are not scheduled to be in session on Monday.
Lexington-Richland Five
While schools and offices in School District Five of Lexington & Richland Counties are already closed on Monday for a previously scheduled holiday, employees who were scheduled to work will transition to remote work due to forecast severe weather.
Newberry County
The School District of Newberry County will close all schools and offices on Monday due to forecast severe weather.
Orangeburg County
Orangeburg County School District will observe an eLearning Day on Monday due to forecast severe wind conditions, with all afterschool programs, extracurricular activities, and athletic events canceled. Students should follow the eLearning procedures previously communicated by their schools.
Richland One
Richland One has announced that all schools and offices will be closed on Monday due to the severe weather forecast. School officials said this will not be an eLearning day. All afterschool activities on Monday have also been canceled. The Richland One Rising Stars Awards Ceremony is also canceled.
Richland Two
Richland Two will cancel classes on Monday due to forecasted severe weather and high winds. All district buildings and offices will be closed.
Saluda County
Saluda County schools are monitoring the weather forecast but have not made any changes to school schedules at this time.
Sumter County
Sumter School District has designated Monday as an eLearning Day due to forecast severe weather, with all schools, offices, and activities closed or canceled, and the day will not need to be made up. Lessons will be posted on Schoology, and students who are unable to participate due to power outages or limited internet access will be allowed to complete assignments at a later time.
Disclaimer:
