MYRTLE BEACH, SC – City officials are bracing for the possible arrival of Hurricane Imelda, a developing storm with an uncertain track that could bring tropical impacts to the Carolinas early next week.
The Myrtle Beach Police Department said Thursday that emergency managers are closely monitoring the storm as forecasts continue to shift. While two possible scenarios remain in play, officials warned there is a growing chance that the region will feel effects from the system.
City agencies have begun routine preparations, and residents are being urged to review hurricane kits, stock up on essential supplies, and finalize evacuation or shelter plans in case conditions worsen. Authorities said a clearer forecast is expected by Friday afternoon.
“We encourage everyone to take this time to prepare, not panic,” the department posted on social media.
Tere is still a lot of uncertainty regarding the storm that will soon be named “Imelda”. However, as new data comes in there is an increased likelihood that we will experience tropical impacts to some degree. The two most likely scenarios are:
1. Imelda could continue moving north and move into the Carolinas as either a tropical storm or hurricane early next week – possibly Monday into Tuesday.
2. Imelda could stall off the Southeast coast for a day or two early next week before being pulled east away from the coast – possibly being absorbed by Hurricane Humberto. Humberto has NO THREAT of making landfall which would make this the best case scenario.
The storm, not yet a fully formed hurricane, is expected to strengthen as it moves through the Atlantic. Meteorologists said the next 24 to 48 hours will be critical in determining whether the East Coast faces a direct impact or glancing blow.
Key Points
- Developing storm Imelda could bring tropical impacts to the Carolinas early next week.
- Myrtle Beach officials urged residents to check hurricane kits and plans.
- A more definitive forecast is expected by Friday afternoon.