Myrtle Beach: A Hotspot for Adventure, but Also Caution
Oh, Myrtle Beach! Known for its *sunny shores*, *endless fun*, and *vibrant atmosphere*, this popular vacation spot has recently made headlines for a different reason. According to a study by White Law, Myrtle Beach now holds the dubious title of being one of the top dangerous beaches in the United States, coming in at the number 20 spot. It is indeed the only beach in South Carolina to make the list, which mostly features shores from the Sunshine State, including New Smyrna Beach, Panama City Beach, and Daytona Beach, which claimed the top three spots.
What Makes Myrtle Beach So Dangerous?
So, what exactly is behind this ranking? The study examined statistics related to hurricanes, shark attacks, and surf zone fatalities across numerous beaches in the country. For Myrtle Beach, the figures are eye-opening: 24 people have lost their lives in surf-related accidents, and there have been 24 recorded shark attacks since the data began in 1845, with the most recent incident occurring just last month in September 2023.
Although it sounds alarming, it’s essential to remember that the beach is not *playing host to a shark frenzy*—most of these shark attacks have resulted in minor injuries rather than life-threatening situations. In fact, the *real danger comes from the ocean’s currents and storms*. Myrtle Beach has experienced 33 hurricanes over the years, most of which have led to dangerous rip currents and storm surges—a far greater risk than the occasional shark sighting.
Flag Warnings and Safety Precautions
This year has seen some particularly fierce rip currents, leading local officials to post red flags at many beaches. These flags serve as a strong reminder of the risks involved with swimming in the ocean during such conditions. In fact, due to the hazardous surf, police agencies across the region have responded to numerous calls related to ocean safety.
In North Myrtle Beach alone, the beach patrol conducted an impressive 72 rescues involving 114 individuals by November 22, 2024. Additionally, they carried out a whopping 1,781 preventative actions to keep swimmers safe from the powerful currents, helping over 16,000 people in the process!
What About the Numbers?
The Horry County Beach Patrol reported an astounding 15,849 calls for service through November 24, 2024. That figure alone reflects the public’s need for assistance while enjoying the waves! In total, they recorded 19,681 service calls for the entirety of 2023. Meanwhile, the Myrtle Beach Beach Patrol reported 100 surf rescues from January 1, 2023, through November 19, 2024. Sadly, there have been 17 instances categorized as drownings, where individuals lost consciousness in the water. This year, three of those drownings were fatal.
What Can You Do to Stay Safe?
With all these stats in mind, you might be wondering how you can still enjoy Myrtle Beach while staying safe. First and foremost, always pay attention to the warning flags on the beach. When you see a red flag, it’s time to reconsider going for a dip! Additionally, keep an eye on the weather conditions, and if storms are in the forecast, it’s best to avoid the water altogether.
Remember, while the ocean can offer some thrilling adventures, it can also be unpredictable and dangerous. By staying informed and cautious, you can enjoy everything that beautiful Myrtle Beach has to offer, minus the worry! So, pack your sunscreen and prepare for a wonderful time at the beach—but keep those safety tips close at hand!
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.
