Local

Will Columbia grocery stores close or limit hours during SC winter storm? What we found

By Damian Bertrand

January 24, 2026 5:30 AM

The Publix in Columbia’s Vista is changing its store hours because of the weekend winter storm. Tracy Glantz tglantz@thestate.com

Grocery store shelves are getting wiped clean by customers who are anticipating the arrival of winter storm Fern.

The storm is likely to bring at least some frozen rain to Columbia on Saturday, creating hazardous driving conditions and icy roads, possibly preventing people from safely getting their groceries over the weekend.

As a result, some Columbia grocery stores have already altered their store hours for the weekend.

Here is the status of eight grocery stores in the Columbia area:

Trader Joe’s at 4516 Forest Drive

Trader Joe’s at 4516 Forest Drive plans to open their store at 9 a.m. on Saturday, which is an hour later than usual, according to a store operative. They’re not certain whether store hours will be affected after that, but they are prepared to make changes based on road conditions.

The Fresh Market at 4840 Forest Drive

The Fresh Market at 4840 Forest Drive is currently not changing its store hours.

Publix at 501 Gervais Street

Publix at 501 Gervais Street does not plan on changing store hours Saturday, but they are planning to open at 9 a.m. on Sunday, which is 2 hours later than usual, according to Publix’s customer service.

Food Lion at 1001 Harden Street

Currently, store hours will not be affected from the winter storm at Food Lion at 1001 Harden Street.

Publix at 2800 Rosewood Drive

Publix at 2800 Rosewood Drive plans to open its store at 9 a.m. on Saturday. They usually open at 7 a.m.

Target at 6090 Garners Ferry Road

According to their website, Target at 6090 Garners Ferry Road has not changed their store hours for the upcoming storm.

Whole Foods Market at 702 Cross Hill Rd Suite 300

Currently, there are no changes in store hours at Whole Foods Market at 702 Cross Hill Rd Suite 300. A customer service representative said changes may occur as harsh conditions become more certain.

Lowes Foods at 4711 Forest Drive

A customer service representative said that store hours of Lowes Foods at 4711 Forest Drive are currently not affected.

Walmart at 7520 Garners Ferry Road and 5240 Forest Drive

According to a response from Walmart’s corporate office, these Walmarts’ store hours will be unaffected by the winter storm.