Flood Watch Issued for Grand Strand, Pee Dee

A Potential Flood Alert for Tail-End of the Week

Anticipating the possible effects of a weather disturbance, the National Weather Service issued a flood watch for the regions of Grand Strand and Pee Dee on July 25, 2024. The alert took effect Thursday morning and will be sustained until midnight. These communities have been warned to expect considerable rainfall and potential flooding over the next couple of days.

Flood Watch after Recent Drought Status

The entirety of the counties under the advisory in the Grand Strand and Pee Dee regions had recently been under the label of “severe” drought stage. However, this was revised to a more hopeful “moderate” drought status by the drought committee just the day before the flood watch was announced. This determination was made based on a combined analysis of several key factors including a decrease in incidents related to wildlife and a perceptible improvement in streamflow levels.

What Does a Flood Watch Mean?

It’s important to understand that a flood watch is not an immediate assurance of floods. Rather, the alert indicates conditions that could potentially lead to flooding. For residents in the concerned areas, this watch should serve as a cue to remain vigilant about possible flood scenarios and take appropriate preemptive measures, particularly to secure their homes and properties. Staples include clearing out gutters, moving items off the floors that may potentially be affected by flooding, and ensuring one’s emergency readiness kit is up-to-date.

Anticipating Weather Changes

Residents in the Grand Strand and Pee Dee regions are encouraged to closely monitor weather updates and adhere to advisories from local authorities. These weather broadcasts will bring the latest updates in rainfall volumes and other weather patterns that may contribute to flood conditions. While flooding is unpredictable, being prepared and informed could potentially make a big difference to the impact on families and communities.

Staying Prepared

The potential of flooding can be highly disruptive and potentially dangerous. Now under a flood watch, the residents of Grand Strand and Pee Dee must take suitable precautions. These steps include creating and practicing family communication plans, preparing emergency supply kits, and familiarizing oneself with high ground access routes in case evacuation becomes necessary. In case of severe weather conditions, residents must stay indoors and should always refrain from driving through areas where water covers the roadway.

Staying Vigilant and Connected

For regular weather updates and potential flood alerts, residents are advised to stay connected to reliable weather information channels. In times of severe weather conditions, being informed is crucial to staying safe and prepared. These measures should not cause alarm but are rather essential precautions for the unpredictable nature of weather patterns.