Coastal Chaos: Tropical Storm Helene Hits Myrtle Beach

News Summary

Myrtle Beach faces significant challenges as Tropical Storm Helene brings flooding and storm warnings to the area. North Myrtle Beach experiences notable flooding, compounded by King Tides. Residents and businesses prepare for potential evacuations and damage. Local establishments offer support for evacuees as the storm continues to pose threats. Safety and community cooperation are essential as the region navigates these tumultuous conditions.

Coastal Chaos: Tropical Storm Helene Hits the Grand Strand

This week, the delightful coastal city of Myrtle Beach has faced its fair share of challenges as Tropical Storm Helene made its way through North and South Carolina. While Myrtle Beach managed to avoid the brunt of the storm, the community still dealt with some significant flooding that caused problems for residents and visitors alike.

Flooding in North Myrtle Beach

The Cherry Grove section of North Myrtle Beach experienced notable flooding as the waters from Hog Inlet overflowed. Roads became impassable, and marshes crept into the area, encroaching on homes built on stilts. Residents had to navigate their way around flooded zones, bumping through saltwater in their vehicles, all while worrying about potential damage from the waves created by passing cars.

In fact, the flooding was so intense that trash cans were spotted floating down the streets! As amusing as that sounds, it highlighted the severity of the conditions, and many locals took it seriously as they scouted alternative routes.

King Tides Complicate Flooding

The situation was worsened by the occurrence of what is known as “King Tides,” which happen during the highest seasonal tides, particularly around the full moon. Just a few days before the storm, the full moon on September 17 brought about higher-than-usual tides, creating a double whammy situation.

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control defines King Tides as the highest seasonal tides coinciding with a full or new moon. With predictions indicating tides of up to 6.35 feet in Cherry Grove, residents are keeping an anxious eye on the rising waters.

Taking Precautions

Salty Fry’s Golf Carts in North Myrtle Beach is worried about how saltwater could wreak havoc on golf carts. To mitigate potential damage, rental carts were hastily moved away from vulnerable areas, emphasizing how seriously the storm’s impact is being treated.

Residents are turning to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for tidal predictions to stay a step ahead of potential flooding. Those who have lived in the area for years are especially vigilant—monitoring predictions that suggest tides could reach discomforting heights.

Weather Warnings Abound

National Weather Service has issued tropical storm warnings for North Myrtle Beach, Myrtle Beach, and Surfside Beach, with Hurricane Helene being classified as a Category 1 storm. As it moves towards Florida, higher winds, rain, and the potential for tornadoes loom over all coastal communities.

Residents have already started to feel the impact with power outages affecting thousands in the Grand Strand area. Recent tornado warnings for parts of Horry County indicate that conditions are favorable for significant tornadic activity as well, heightening the sense of urgency and preparation among locals.

Emergency Preparation and Evacuations

Support for Evacuees

$39 a night at Captain’s Quarters Resort and $49 at Crown Reef Resort, as long as evacuees can provide proof of their status.

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Additional Resources

• The Golf Wire: Myrtle Beach Hurricane Helene
• Myrtle Beach Online: Weather News
• WMBF News: Temporary Refuge for Evacuees
• Myrtle Beach Online: Local News Article
• Post and Courier: Hurricane Helene Updates
• Wikipedia: Hurricane Helene
• Google Search: Tropical Storm Helene
• Google Scholar: Tropical Storm Helene
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tropical Storm Helene
• Google News: Tropical Storm Helene

Author: HERE Myrtle Beach