HOME ABOUT US OUR COMMUNITIES REALTORS BLOG CONTACT US WHAT MYRTLE BEACH NEEDS TO KNOW ABOUT HURRICANE SEASON What Myrtle Beach Needs to Know About Hurricane Season There is little to complain about when it comes to living in Myrtle Beach. For those who love the peace and slower pace of life associated with coastal living, there is plenty of room to relax. For those who enjoy dinner and a show, southern nightlife, and exciting events, they can find more than they could experience in a lifetime. The temperature in coastal South Carolina is mild all winter but cooler in the summer than nearby inland cities. However, one concern of current and potential future residence is hurricane season. The Carolina coast has been called hurricane alley, because of the Gulf Stream, a river of water in the ocean that steers Atlantic tropical systems toward the southeast. Hurricane season begins officially on June 1. And indeed, we have already had two tropical storms make landfall in the Carolinas. We want to help make sure Myrtle Beach residents are safe and their property is secure throughout the storm season. In this article, we are discussing four tips you need to know for hurricane season. What Residents Need to Know About Hurricane Season 1) DIRECT IMPACTS FROM HURRICANES IN MYRTLE BEACH IS RARE. Though Myrtle Beach is one of the most famous coastal Carolina cities, it is not as prone to direct strikes from hurricanes as other parts of the coast. Though it is by no means impossible for hurricanes to make landfall in Myrtle Beach, the shape of the Carolina coastline actually somewhere protects our area from direct impacts. The gulf stream actually steers hurricanes toward the Outer Banks of North Carolina more often than it does the South Carolina coast. In fact, in 2020, the two storms that have impacted our coast made landfall either on the Outer Banks or farther south near Charleston. Both storms resulted in a bit of wind and rain for us. 2) WE CAN BE IMPACTED BY TROPICAL SYSTEMS, EVEN IF INDIRECTLY. There have been a few storms in recent memory here in Myrtle Beach. A few of the storms that have impacted our area include: Hurricane Hugo – A category 4 storm that made landfall in Charleston – 1989 Hurricane Hazel – A category 4 storm that made landfall near North Myrtle Beach – 1954 Hurricane Florence – A Category 1 storm that made landfall near Wrightsville Beach – 2018 Hurricane Hazel was by far the most powerful hurricane to strike Myrtle Beach; however, Florence Is the one that sticks out in recent memory. Areas throughout North and South Carolina experienced unprecedented flooding. Most of which, however, was experienced inland and a result of rivers breaking their banks. 3) IT IS OFTEN NOT THE WIND THAT’S THE CONCERN WITH HURRICANES. Hurricane strength is measured by winds. A category one hurricane, for instants, has sustained winds of 74 to 93 mph. However, for coastal communities, winds, storm surge, and heavy rain are the primary threats to property. However, if you were not directly on the beach, storm surge will not likely reach much past the first row or two of houses. And being built on stilts can go a long way toward protecting beach homes. Those who live in communities farther inland should be aware of whether there is a potential for flooding. You were likely made aware of floodplain prone areas before you purchased your property. One of the most important things you can do to protect your property in the event of a storm is to work with a quality home builder who knows how to build homes on the coast. 4) YOU SHOULD PAY CLOSE ATTENTION TO THE WEATHER DURING THE SUMMER. The best thing you can do to protect your property and family is to pay close attention to the weather during the summer. There are often storms that capture media attention only to ultimately move far from this area; however, it is important to remain vigilant throughout hurricane season. We have already had two storms not be named until just before they made landfall. You can follow local meteorologists on social media, download weather apps that send you notifications when weather alerts are in place, and, of course, watch the local news for the latest regarding hurricane season. It is important to remember that water is often the main hazard during these events, but occasionally, it may make sense to board up windows. More than anything, it is important to remember that we are generally spared the worst of the storm here in Myrtle Beach. Realstar Homes builds the highest quality homes in the area. We have safety in mind throughout the process. If you are thinking about moving to Myrtle Beach or upgrading to a new home within the area, please do not hesitate to contact us. More in this category: « How to Reduce Allergies in Your Home Myrtle Beach a Top Ten Best Small Cities List » back to top FOLLOW US Copyright © 2021 Realstar Homes - All rights reserved