Myrtle Beach Prepares for Severe Thunderstorms and Tropical Storm Threat

News Summary

Myrtle Beach is on high alert as severe thunderstorms and a tropical storm warning are issued for the area. Residents are advised to seek shelter and stay safe as fast-moving storms could bring damaging winds, hail, and localized flooding. With possible high winds and heavy rain expected, the local community is urged to remain informed and prepared for potential disruptions over the weekend.

Myrtle Beach Braces for Severe Thunderstorms and Tropical Storm Threat

The lovely coastal city of Myrtle Beach is gearing up for a potentially wild weather weekend! On Thursday evening, the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wilmington, NC, issued a severe thunderstorm warning for Myrtle Beach and the nearby Marion County. The warning started at 8:22 p.m. and is set to last until 9 p.m. This is not something to take lightly, as those strong thunderstorms are packed with damaging wind gusts that could reach up to 40 mph and hail that’s the size of marbles—measuring about 0.5 inches in diameter!

As of the latest update, Doppler radar has been tracking a cluster of these fierce storms near Marion, and they are moving southeast at a speed of about 10 mph. If you live in areas like Galivants Ferry, Rains, or Marion, paying attention to the sky might be a smart idea. The storm might bring gusty winds that could knock down tree limbs and propel unsecured objects around—definitely not the kind of excitement anyone is looking for. Minor damage to your garden could happen too, as hail can be tough on plants.

Seek Shelter and Stay Safe!

Residents are strongly urged to seek shelter indoors if they are outside. Remember, the storm also comes with heavy rain that may lead to localized flooding. If you’re driving around during this storm, it’s crucial to stay alert and not venture through any flooded roadways—because there are always some surprises lurking under those muddy waters.

And here’s another thing to be cautious about: the storm carries with it a parade of continuous cloud-to-ground lightning. This is serious business, as lightning is among nature’s top killers. If you can hear the thunder, then you’re close enough to be struck—definitely don’t want to take that chance!

Oconee County Bracing for Stronger Storms Too!

On Friday at around 10:35 p.m., the NWS in Greenville-Spartanburg, SC, issued a separate severe thunderstorm warning for Oconee County, effective until 11 p.m. This warning suggests that the winds might kick it up a notch—gusts could reach up to 60 mph with quarter-sized hail measuring around 1 inch! Currently, the storm is located about 9 miles northwest of Walhalla and is moving east at about 25 mph.

Areas like Mountain Rest, Devils Fork State Park, and Lake Jocassee should buckle up for potential wind damage and minor hail incidents. The NWS advises anyone in these areas to move to an interior room on the lowest floor—safety first!

Lightning Strikes: A Year-Round Hazard

Did you know that in the U.S., lightning strikes occur approximately 25 million times every year, especially during the summer months? It’s a staggering figure. This tempestuous weather is likely to result in some minor damages to vehicles and properties, particularly from hail and strong winds taking a toll on trees and power lines.

For those who may not know, hydroplaning could be another hazard when driving in the rain. It happens when a vehicle’s tires can’t push away water quickly enough, causing it to slide uncontrollably. This is another reason to be cautious when hitting the roads during stormy weather.

Tropical Storm on the Horizon

To top it all off, a tropical storm warning is also in effect for Myrtle Beach due to Tropical Cyclone Eight. The city should prepare for the possibility of storms and strong winds throughout the weekend. Expect 2 to 3 inches of rain and wind gusts reaching 40 to 50 mph, which could even peak at 60 mph right in Myrtle Beach. If you’re further inland, expect slightly less rain—about 1.5 to 2 inches—with gusts up to 25 mph!

School Transition to E-Learning

In light of these weather developments, students in Horry County Schools will transition to e-learning on Monday to keep everyone safe while the storm rolls in. Some parts of the coast are also facing a high risk of rip currents and surf conditions reaching between 2 to 6 feet. Plus, a marginal risk of tornadoes exists, particularly around North Myrtle Beach, making it essential for everyone to stay informed and vigilant.

With the weather behaving unpredictably, it’s best to stay safe indoors, keep updated on the storm’s progress, and prepare for what lies ahead. Here’s hoping everyone in Myrtle Beach and the surrounding areas stays safe and dry!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Severe Thunderstorm Warnings Hit Myrtle Beach Area
Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in Myrtle Beach: What to Know
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Myrtle Beach Area
Myrtle Beach Faces Severe Thunderstorm Warning
Myrtle Beach and Georgetown County Brace for Severe Thunderstorm Watch
Tragic Loss: Community Mourns 9-Year-Old Boy Swept Away by Floods
Severe Weather Hits Columbia: Tornado and Thunderstorm Warnings
Myrtle Beach Set for a Sizzling Weekend
Precautions for a Safe Beach Season in Grand Strand
Golftopia Indoor Golf Facility Opens in Myrtle Beach

Additional Resources

• Myrtle Beach Online: Thunderstorms and Tropical Storm Threat
• Wikipedia: Tropical Storm
• Herald Online: Severe Weather Updates
• Google Search: Severe Thunderstorm
• AOL: Myrtle Beach Area Weather
• Google Scholar: Thunderstorm Precautions
• Myrtle Beach Online: Weather Safety Tips
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Lightning
• Myrtle Beach Online: Tropical Cyclone News
• Google News: Tropical Storms