Coastal Storm Brings Rain and Flood Warnings to Horry County
As the sun sets on this Monday evening, residents of Horry County are feeling the effects of an unnamed coastal storm that has settled over the area. This low pressure system has made its presence distinctly known, with rain and winds expected to linger throughout the night. Despite its unassuming title, it’s certainly leaving a noticeable mark on our local weather.
What’s Happening Tonight?
The storm is happily twisting its way toward the Pee Dee area, set to pass through Monday night and into Tuesday morning. It seems that the southern parts of Horry County should see the heaviest of the showers dissipate by later tonight, while folks in the Pee Dee and Border Belt can expect those rain clouds to hang around a bit longer.
If you’re out and about tonight, take note: a Flood Watch is currently in effect until 8 a.m. tomorrow morning for places colored in green on the map, which notably includes Lumberton and Laurinburg. Minor flooding in low-lying and poorly drained areas is definitely on the cards, so exercise caution if you’re driving or walking through these neighborhoods.
What’s the Forecast?
As we look ahead to the rest of the week, it’s important to keep an eye on local rivers. Predictions suggest that several river gauges in our area are set to hit minor flood stages, which could lead to some tricky conditions until the weekend. Residents living near the Lynches River at Effingham and the Black River at Kingstree can breathe a little easier, as these rivers are expected to remain below flood stage. However, it never hurts to stay informed!
Tides and Rip Currents
Over the weekend, we experienced some high tides, which nudged close to minor flood levels even as recently as Monday morning. The good news is that since the storm will be moving inland, the high tide expected this evening is not anticipated to be as severe. Still, keep in mind that hazardous rip currents and rough surf are in the forecast for the Grand Strand area through tonight. While things may improve on Tuesday with rip currents being downgraded to moderate levels, it’s wise to approach the ocean with caution.
What About the Schools?
Unsurprisingly, the weather has led to some school closures around Horry County, with many educational institutions shifting to e-learning days. This decision was likely made to ensure student safety as the storm keeps its grip on the region. If you have kids, be sure to check in with their schools for the latest updates!
A Reminder to Stay Prepared
As we navigate through the next 24 hours, it’s essential to stay updated on local weather alerts and heed any warnings. Have an emergency kit ready, especially if you’re living in areas prone to flooding. While the storm may be unnamed, the attention it deserves is clear. Let’s be smart and safe, fellow residents.
So, let’s keep our fingers crossed for clear skies and warm sunshine to head our way soon. Until then, stay dry and keep your umbrellas at the ready!
