Carolina Coast, September 30, 2025
News Summary
Tropical Storm Imelda is expected to impact the Carolinas primarily on Monday and Tuesday, prompting local authorities to take precautionary measures. South Carolina’s Governor declared a state of emergency and the city of Myrtle Beach is distributing free sandbags. Schools in Horry County plan to operate normally, while local events have been postponed. Preparations are in place to ensure public safety amid concerns of flooding and strong winds. Authorities encourage residents to heed warnings and make protective arrangements for their homes and pets.
Carolina Coast
Governments and organizations across the Grand Strand and Pee Dee are actively monitoring the developments of Tropical Storm Imelda, which is anticipated to affect the Carolinas primarily on Monday and Tuesday. However, recent data suggests a decreasing risk for significant impacts as the storm shifts eastward out to sea. In response to the potential challenges posed by the storm, local authorities have enacted precautions to ensure safety and preparedness.
In South Carolina, Governor Henry McMaster declared a state of emergency on Friday. This declaration triggers the state’s price gouging law, intended to protect consumers from inflated prices during emergencies. The city of Myrtle Beach remains operational, with routine solid waste and recycling collections scheduled. However, preparations are in place for potential heavy rain and localized flooding from the storm’s outer bands.
Mayor Brenda Bethune of Myrtle Beach has signed a Declaration of Civil Emergency to facilitate rapid responses to any developments related to Imelda. Dangerous swimming conditions are predicted, leading beachgoers to be advised to heed lifeguards’ instructions and comply with beach flag systems. On Saturday, the city distributed free sandbags to residents in preparation for the storm.
The Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce has postponed several events scheduled for Monday and Tuesday due to anticipated weather conditions. Meanwhile, Horry County has shifted from OPCON level 2 to level 3, indicating that normal daily operations have resumed after reassessing the situation regarding Imelda. The Horry County Council also declared a State of Emergency on Friday, which will remain in effect for 60 days unless rescinded.
Several public hearings, including those for the Carolina Bays Parkway Extension, have been postponed because of the storm. Horry County Schools plan to operate normally on Monday, though they will monitor rain forecasts closely. School officials have provided eLearning packets to elementary students, while middle and high school students will receive further instructions based on the storm’s developments.
The Horry County Animal Care Center is prepared for possible pet displacements due to Imelda, and community members in Nichols are encouraged to take measures to protect their homes and pets. The city of Conway, which initially declared a State of Emergency, has also transitioned to OPCON 3 as the forecast improves. In addition, Coastal Carolina University announced the continuation of classes on Monday.
North Myrtle Beach City Council voted for a State of Emergency as a precautionary measure. Concerns regarding storm surge, flash flooding, heavy winds, and potential tornadoes are particularly notable in areas like Cherry Grove, Windy Hill, and 48th Avenue South. Georgetown County has similarly returned to OPCON 3 as forecasts indicate lesser impacts from the storm.
Farmers and animal shelters in the vicinity are also taking precautions. The Marion County Animal Shelter seeks placements for dogs currently outside to ensure their safety, while the Marion County Sheriff’s Office is advising residents to stay updated with local news and weather alerts. In Florence County, emergency management officials forecast heavy rain from Monday to Tuesday, likely causing localized flooding, though conditions are expected to improve by Wednesday. West Florence Fire Rescue has advised residents to avoid flooded roads and adhere to weather advisories.
Summary of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Expected Impact Dates | Monday and Tuesday |
| Governor’s Declaration | State of emergency declared, activating price gouging law |
| City Actions | Preparedness measures including free sandbags, routine operations |
| School Operations | Normal operations with eLearning packets for elementary students |
| Animal Safety Measures | Precautions for pets and shelters in affected areas |
| Weather Concerns | Flooding, heavy winds, tornado potential in specific areas |
FAQ
What are the expected impact dates of Tropical Storm Imelda?
The storm is expected to affect the Carolinas primarily on Monday and Tuesday.
Why did Governor Henry McMaster declare a state of emergency?
The declaration activates the price gouging law to protect consumers.
What preparations are being made in Myrtle Beach?
The city remains operational with solid waste collections scheduled and is preparing for heavy rain and localized flooding.
Are schools operating normally during the storm?
Horry County Schools will operate normally on Monday, monitoring the rain forecast.
What should residents do about their pets in light of Tropical Storm Imelda?
The Horry County Animal Care Center is seeking assistance to prepare for possible pet displacement due to the storm.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WPDE News
- Wikipedia: Tropical Storm
- ABC11 News
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Imelda
- Myrtle Beach Online
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical Storm Imelda
- WMBF News
- Google News: Tropical Storm Imelda
Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
