National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) Photo
Labor Day beach goers need to be aware
While no direct impact of Hurricane Earl is forecasted for South Carolina, it is being considered a “weather maker” for the Palmetto State’s coastline. Those planning to spend the weekend at the beach should be vigilant of the storm’s path.
According to Craig Fugate of the Federal Emergency Management Agency, evacuations could be necessary along the coastline.
“From the time we can expect tropical force winds in an area, we need to count backwards to allow for clearance time,” Fugate said. “These decisions will be made community by community in order to assure a safe evacuation. The reason for evacuation is not for the winds, it is for the storm surge and potential flooding that could occur in low lying coastal areas.”
Anthony Mack, director of Emergency Services for Clarendon County recommends that all citizens that are potentially in the path of any hurricane prepare now. Log onto to www.ready.gov for complete information on how to prepare your home or business for potential damage from a hurricane.
“While this storm may not directly impact us, the hurricane season lasts until Nov. 30,” Mack noted. “It is vital that we not wait until the last minute to be prepared.”
The National Hurricane Center recommends that travelers to the beach this weekend should pay close attention to weather updates. Should Hurricane Earl shift even slightly to the west of its projected path, Carolina beaches could experience high winds, riptides and beach erosion.
