Columbia Snow Storm Round-Up
photos and words by sean rayford
All photos made on January 31, 2026 in Columbia, SC by Sean Rayford for Getty Images
Covering storms as a photojournalist is exhausting. And not for the reasons you think.
There’s so much uncertainty - that by the time any weather comes, my mind and body is tired from preparing for the worst.
reparing for the worst is a lot of work.
Organizing gear for each storm scenario has its own logistical challenges and I find myself learning new systems and strategies with each one. There’s so much to juggle. With this one, just trying to be outside, somewhat warm and with working fingers—was a challenge
Fortunately, I learned to drive and snowboard in Maryland and Pennsylvania, with multiple blizzards under my belt — so I have some healthy experience with winter weather. But these last two weekends in South Carolina have been annoying. Last weekend in Greenville, it was the freezing rain. This week, it was timing of snow in the Columbia.
At times, the snow was coming down like a frigid version of the Cake song. But most the time I was just waiting for these moments. attempting to stay dry and operational.
Here’s a few of my favorite photos from the 2026 January 31 winter storm in Columbia and West Columbia, South Carolina while on assignment for Getty Images.
