Hurricane Helene Approaches: Coastal South Carolina and Southeast North Carolina Brace for Potential Impacts

Hurricane Helene Update: Coastal South Carolina and Southeast North Carolina on Alert

September 25, 2024 As of today, Hurricane Helene continues its enhancement as it aggressively approaches the Florida Big Bend area. Local areas of Northeast South Carolina and Southeast North Carolina are bracing for its potential impacts expected from Thursday into Friday.

Situation Overview

Hurricane Helene is a large and formidable storm system due to make landfall near the Florida Big Bend on Thursday evening. Owing to the hurricane’s vast physical size, the effects of the storm are predicted to be major along the eastern side far away from the storm’s center.

Projected local impacts in South Carolina and Southeast North Carolina include:

Gusty winds, particularly in coastal regions.
Possible areas of flooding, especially in low-lying or flood-prone zones.
The threat of isolated tornadoes from Thursday night through Friday.
Dangerous surf conditions affecting coastal waters with large breakers and strong rip currents.

Watches and Warnings

The National Weather Service has issued a Tropical Storm Watch for coastal Georgetown and Horry Counties in South Carolina, as well as adjacent marine zones extending up to 20 nautical miles from the shore. This watch area, extending from South Santee River to Little River Inlet, is expected to endure potential impacts from Thursday evening.

Peak Forecast Wind Gusts

The National Weather Service forecasts wind gusts likely to reach 30 to 40 mph primarily in coastal regions of Northeast South Carolina. In more inland areas, winds are expected to reach up to 25-30 mph. It is important to note that higher gusts near thunderstorms could lead to downed trees and power lines, causing power outages across the affected regions.

Timing of Tropical Storm Winds

The arrival time for tropical-storm-force winds is most likely this Thursday evening, with impacts persisting into Friday. The coastal regions of Northeast South Carolina are anticipated to encounter the strongest winds.

Storm Surge Forecast

Minor coastal flooding along the Northeast South Carolina and Southeast North Carolina coasts is likely with each high tide. This will be further exacerbated by peak storm surges, especially during Thursday afternoon and Friday morning. Residents near the Cape Fear River and the Wilmington area should anticipate some flooding with each high tide through the week.

Tornado Threats

The main threat of tornadoes is projected to occur from Thursday night through Friday as the outer bands of the storm sweep through the region. Local residents are advised to stay alert for any changing weather conditions, as severe thunderstorms could potentially spawn isolated tornadoes.

Key Takeaways

Hurricane Helene is rapidly strengthening and is expected to land near Florida’s Big Bend. The large size of the storm means that areas well outside the storm’s center will also be affected. Predicted rainfall amounts range from 1 to 2 inches, with certain areas possibly receiving higher amounts.

Residents, particularly those in coastal and low-lying areas, should prepare for possible minor coastal flooding during high tides. Safety measures must be prioritized to prevent any major concerns from arising.

The National Weather Service will provide the next update at 6:00 PM EDT on Wednesday, September 25, 2024. It is crucial for residents to remain informed through official sources and be prepared for changing weather conditions as Hurricane Helene approaches.