The National Weather Service in Wilmington has issued a series of coastal flood and heavy rain alerts for coastal and inland regions of southeastern North Carolina and northeastern South Carolina, effective through Sunday morning.
Heavy tropical moisture moving over the region is expected to bring widespread showers and thunderstorms capable of producing dangerous excessive rainfall, high longshore currents, and tidal inundation.
Key Weather Warnings & Schedules
Flood Watch
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In Effect: 11:00 AM Saturday, Oct. 10 through Sunday morning
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Areas Affected: Columbus County, Inland Brunswick County, Coastal Brunswick County, Coastal Horry County, Central Horry County, and Northern Horry County
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Communities Included: Whiteville, Oak Island, Leland, Tabor City, Conway, Lake Waccamaw, Murrells Inlet, Chadbourn, Boiling Spring Lakes, Loris, Long Beach, Socastee, Little River, Garden City, Myrtle Beach, Southport, Aynor, Shallotte, Sunset Beach, North Myrtle Beach, and Seagate
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Expected Rainfall: Widespread rainfall amounts of 2 to 4 inches, with localized areas potentially receiving up to 8 inches in heavy downpours.
Coastal Flood Advisory
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In Effect: 6:00 AM to 10:00 AM Saturday, Oct. 10
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Areas Affected: Coastal Brunswick County and Coastal Horry County
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Tidal Inundation: Up to half a foot (6 inches) of flooding above ground level in low-lying areas near shorelines, tidal waterways, and along the Intracoastal Waterway.
Beach Hazards Statement
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In Effect: 6:00 AM through Saturday evening
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Areas Affected: Coastal Brunswick County and Coastal Horry County
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Marine Hazards: Strong east-to-west longshore currents along with a moderate risk of rip currents.
Local Impacts on Our Area
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Roadways & Travel: Low-lying roads, urban intersections with poor drainage, and coastal routes near tidal creeks and the Intracoastal Waterway are highly susceptible to ponding and localized flooding. Heavy downpours can drastically reduce driving visibility.
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Saturated Ground & Runoff: With up to 8 inches of localized rainfall possible, ground saturation will cause quick runoff into local rivers, streams, creeks, and low-lying ditches, elevating the risk of localized flash flooding.
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Surf & Water Safety: Strong longshore currents can knock swimmers off their feet and push them sideways along the shoreline into rip currents, piers, jetties, or other hazardous coastal structures.
Safety Precautions & Action Steps
Driving & Travel
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Never Drive Through Flooded Roads: If you encounter water across a roadway, turn around. It takes as little as 12 inches of moving water to carry away a standard car.
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Obey Road Closures: Do not drive around official barricades or through standing water of unknown depth.
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Exercise Nighttime Caution: Flash floods are significantly harder to spot at night. Drive at reduced speeds and stay alert for sudden roadway hazards or standing water.
Property Protection
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Clear Drainage Pathways: Ensure storm drains, gutters, and yard ditches near your property are clear of debris to assist water runoff.
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Secure Flood-Prone Items: Move outdoor furniture, lawn equipment, and valuable property to elevated ground if you reside in a low-lying or flood-prone area.
Beach & Ocean Safety
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Exercise Extreme Ocean Caution: Swimmers and surfers should check in with local lifeguards before entering the water.
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Avoid Jetties and Piers: Avoid swimming near hard structures where longshore currents can trap or push individuals into structural hazards.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts and stay updated on changing weather conditions throughout the weekend.
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