Be Prepared, Myrtle Beach: Tornado Threat Expected from Tropical Storm Helene

Be Prepared, Myrtle Beach: Tornado Threat from Helene

Hey there, Myrtle Beach! As we get ready for another weekend, it looks like we’re in for some unpredictable weather. Friday has been marked as a FIRST ALERT WEATHER DAY for our beloved Grand Strand and Pee Dee areas, thanks to the bands from Tropical Storm Helene moving through our region. This could lead to the potential for isolated tornadoes and some pretty strong wind gusts, so it’s essential to stay alert and prepared!

Understanding Tornado Watches and Warnings

First and foremost, it’s crucial to know the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning. A tornado watch means that conditions are right for tornadoes and severe storms to form. It’s like a friendly reminder to stay vigilant. On the other hand, a tornado warning means that a tornado has actually been spotted or detected on radar. When you hear the warning, it’s time to spring into action!

What To Do When a Tornado Warning Hits

So, what should you do once that tornado warning is issued? Our trusty local meteorologists recommend that you head to your safe place immediately. This could be the most interior room of your home, or perhaps a sturdy bathroom or closet—anywhere that maximizes your distance from windows and has lots of walls to protect you from flying debris.

Stay Connected and Informed

When severe weather strikes, having the right tools can make all the difference. Make sure you’re subscribed to alerts on your phone. You can easily download the First Alert Weather App, which is free and designed to provide critical weather updates. This app will let you know when a tornado watch or warning is issued for your area, keeping you one step ahead.

One handy feature in the app is the “follow me” option. To turn it on, just open the app, tap on “home,” and ensure the “follow me” setting is highlighted. This way, you’ll receive real-time alerts that are specific to your location, making it even easier to stay weather-aware tonight!

Setting Up Emergency Alerts

In addition to the weather app, you can also enable emergency alerts directly from your smartphone. Simply open your settings app, tap on notifications, and turn on emergency alerts. This feature will inform you of safety events, weather warnings, and other critical information, ensuring you are always in the know.

Preparing for the Night

As we prepare for the stormy night ahead, take a moment to ensure your family knows where to go in case of an emergency. Gather any necessary items you might need—like flashlights, batteries, and your phone charger—and make sure everyone is on the same page. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!

While we hope for calm skies, staying informed and ready can help you weather any storm that comes our way. If you’re looking for the latest forecast or need additional information on Hurricane Helene’s impact, don’t hesitate to stay tuned to local resources.

Remember, Myrtle Beach, we’re all in this together! Stay safe, stay aware, and let’s hope for sunny skies ahead!